Youngstown (Ohio) Cardinal Mooney defensive tackle Johnny Simon is a specimen. At 6-3, 275-pounds, Simon looks like an NFL prospect already. This summer we first saw Simon at the University of Pittsburgh Football Camp and he dominated the competition.
Scout.com then saw Simon in action at the Herbstreit Challenge against a very solid Gateway team. During the first quarter, Simon struggled at times, but as the game went on Simon got stronger and took over the game.
When Simon uses his hands, he is a load to handle. As is the case with any young player he tends to forget that once in a while. He is very explosive off the snap and often commands a double-team. It's no coincidence that the linebacker's at Cardinal Mooney make a ton of tackles.
Simon is tremendous in pursuit and is athletic enough that if he makes a mistake and penetrates too deep, he can make up the lost ground and still make a play.
Simon holds a number of offers from the likes of Illinois, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Pittsburgh and Stanford. Penn State and Simon have shown mutual interest in each other, but the Nittany Lions do not offer juniors until after signing day. It's likely that Simon can name his suitor.
Below are some clips of Simon in action this year against Pennsylvania power Gateway. Simon rotates along the defensive line and is No. 54
#54 DT Johnny Simon Watch Video