The Seattle Seahawks are bringing in another wide receiver into training camp.
As reported by Pro Football Network’s James Larsen, the Seahawks are signing wide receiver Marcus Simms. The 6-foot, 26-year-old receiver most recently starred for the UFL’s Michigan Panthers.
“The Seattle Seahawks plan to sign All-#UFL @USFLPanthers WR Marcus Simms, per league source,” writes Larsen on Tuesday, July 16. “Simms had a tremendous campaign with the Michigan Panthers this season, posting 426 yards & 3 TD’s, averaging 18.5 YPR. Additionally, he’s been an ace on special teams.”
Marcus Simms Brings Returner Experience in Addition to Being a Deep Threat
Larsen is known for his deep-threat ability, garnering All-UFL honors after posting 23 catches for 426 yards (18.5 yards per reception) and three touchdowns in just eight games. Two of those touchdowns were over 60 yards.
The addition of Simms is obviously noteworthy because of his ability as a long ball receiver, but he’s also a versatile threat due to his deep experience as a special teams player. During his collegiate career at West Virginia, Simms posted 41 kickoffs during his last two seasons there, averaging 24.2 yards per kickoff return. He also posted 23 punts returns for 157 yards (6.8 yards per punt return).
The NFL’s new kickoff rules — which places an increased value on returners — could benefit Simms as he looks to earn a spot on the 53-man roster.
Simms also showed off his deep-threat ability while in college, posting 35 receptions for 663 receiving yards for 18.9 yards per reception during his sophomore season.
With the Seahawks’ top three receiver spots locked up by DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Simms will vie for one of the two or three remaining receiver spots with receivers such as Laviska Shenault, Jake Bobo, Dee Eskridge and Dareke Young.
The Seahawks are set to begin training camp on July 24.
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