At the NFL Combine on Saturday, South Carolina tight end Josh Simon emphasized his value to NFL teams, highlighting his work ethic and resilience.
“I think it speaks for itself at this point, at this stage,” Simon stated. “You know, I’m a hard worker. My work ethic is through the roof.”
Simon’s six-year college career, spanning four seasons at Western Kentucky and two at South Carolina, is a testament to his dedication. In 2024, his final season with the Gamecocks, he broke the school’s single-season record for touchdowns by a tight end. His seventh touchdown, scored against Illinois in the Citrus Bowl, surpassed Clyde Bennett’s 1953 record.1
Simon’s perseverance was also evident in his ability to overcome adversity. He suffered a season-ending knee injury in the 2021 season opener while at Western Kentucky.2
“I can play through adversity,” Simon said. “…I’m a hard runner on the field. I’m hard to tackle. My knowledge of the game, just to create mismatches and know where I need to be and my spots, stuff like that.”
In 2024, Simon led the Gamecocks with 519 receiving yards.3 His 57-yard reception against Texas A&M showcased his ability to break tackles and create separation from defenders.
Off the field, Simon stressed his maturity, reliability, and responsibility. He offered a straightforward explanation of his maturity: “[I will] be in the places I need to be and not in the places I don’t need to be.”
He also emphasized his accountability: “I hold myself to a very high standard in what I do and how I represent myself,” Simon explained. “So, representing myself in an organization, you wouldn’t have to worry about that with me.” He considers himself his own toughest critic.
