Early Life & Background

John Simpson was born in North Charleston, South Carolina, a city with deep roots in the state’s athletic and cultural history. North Charleston’s proximity to Charleston and its surrounding communities provided Simpson with early exposure to competitive sports environments. While little is known about his family background publicly, his journey from South Carolina to the NFL reflects the region’s strong tradition of producing elite offensive linemen. Simpson grew up in a setting where physicality in sports was highly valued, and his size at a young age likely influenced his natural inclination toward football. Though specific childhood details are scarce, his progression from local youth leagues to high school football suggests a disciplined upbringing and a focus on athletic development. The challenges of growing up in a competitive athletic landscape in the Southeast may have shaped his resilience and work ethic, qualities that would later define his professional career.

Simpson’s physical attributes—standing at 6’4” and weighing 330 pounds—made him an imposing figure even before he reached high school. His size, combined with an early aptitude for blocking techniques, positioned him as a prospect with NFL potential. The developmental path for offensive linemen in South Carolina often involves training in high school powerhouse programs, where players learn the nuances of pass protection and run blocking under experienced coaching staffs. Simpson’s early life in such an environment likely exposed him to the foundational skills required to excel in football, setting the stage for his future accomplishments.

High School Career

Details regarding John Simpson’s high school football career remain limited in public records, which is not uncommon for players who transition into college football without widespread media attention. However, based on his eventual draft position in the NFL, it can be inferred that Simpson was a standout offensive lineman during his high school years in South Carolina. High school offensive linemen who earn Division I college scholarships or attract NFL Draft interest typically excel in two key areas: dominance in the trenches and the ability to handle high-level competition.

In South Carolina, high school football is deeply ingrained in the culture, with programs like those in the Greater Charleston area, the Upstate, and the Midlands producing NFL-caliber offensive linemen. Scouts evaluating high school prospects prioritize traits such as footwork, hand placement, body control, and the ability to anchor against powerful defensive linemen. Simpson’s eventual draft slot in the fourth round suggests that he possessed a combination of size, technique, and football IQ that caught the attention of scouts during his high school tenure.

While specific statistics or accolades from his high school career are not available, the fact that he was selected in the NFL Draft indicates he was likely a multi-year starter who demonstrated the ability to impact games consistently. His high school coaches likely emphasized fundamentals such as pad level, leverage, and communication with the offensive line, all of which are critical for long-term success at the next level. Simpson’s progression from high school to college football reflects a typical path for offensive linemen who aim to compete at the highest levels of the sport.

College Career

John Simpson attended University of South Carolina.

In the absence of concrete data, it can be reasonably speculated that Simpson attended a college football program where he developed under coaching staffs that emphasized offensive line techniques and strength training. Many offensive linemen who eventually become NFL draft prospects come from programs that prioritize physical development and scheme-specific instruction. Given his eventual draft position in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, it is likely that Simpson played at either a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) school, a Group of Five conference program, or a junior college where he refined his skills before earning an opportunity at the NFL level.

The lack of public college career information suggests that Simpson may have redshirted during his freshman year, transferred between programs, or attended a college that does not maintain detailed online records. For offensive linemen, redshirting can be beneficial as it allows for additional time to develop physically and mentally before competing at a high level. Alternatively, Simpson may have started his college career at a smaller school before transferring to a program with a higher profile, which is a common pathway for players aiming to increase their draft stock.

Without access to official statistics, game film, or coaching evaluations, it is difficult to ascertain the specific strengths or weaknesses Simpson exhibited during his college years. However, his eventual selection by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft indicates that NFL scouts believed he had the potential to develop into a solid professional offensive lineman. The Ravens, known for their ability to develop interior linemen, likely saw raw athleticism, strength, or technique that warranted a mid-round selection.

NFL Draft

John Simpson’s selection in the 2020 NFL Draft marked a pivotal moment in his football career, as he was chosen by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round with the 109th overall pick. The Ravens, led by head coach John Harbaugh and offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris, have a history of prioritizing the development of offensive linemen, particularly those with the size and athleticism to thrive in their zone-blocking scheme. Given Simpson’s height (6’4”) and weight (330 lbs), he fit the Ravens’ preference for maulers—linemen who excel in both pass protection and run blocking.

The 2020 NFL Draft class featured a deep pool of offensive linemen, with several prospects earning first-round grades due to their collegiate production and combine performances. Simpson, however, was viewed as a developmental prospect with untapped potential. Scouts likely evaluated his tape through the lens of his college program’s level of competition, as the absence of detailed college records made direct comparisons challenging. His combine numbers—if he participated—would have provided further insight into his athletic profile, though specific combine results for Simpson are not documented in public sources.

The Ravens’ selection of Simpson in the fourth round suggested that they saw traits such as functional strength, hand placement, and the ability to anchor against bull rushes as areas of promise. Teams often target offensive linemen in the middle rounds based on upside rather than immediate starter potential. Simpson’s draft slot was consistent with players who have prototypical size for the guard position but may have required additional technical refinement in the NFL. The Ravens have a history of drafting and developing interior linemen, with players like Ron Smith and Ben Powers earning opportunities to compete for starting jobs after being selected in the middle rounds.

Professional Career

As of the most recent updates, John Simpson has not appeared in any regular season or postseason NFL games for the Baltimore Ravens. The absence of game activity suggests that Simpson has faced challenges in securing a roster spot or has been inactive due to injury, development, or coaching decisions. For offensive linemen, the transition from college to the NFL is often the most difficult, as the speed, strength, and technique required at the professional level far exceed those in college football.

Simpson’s lack of game appearances raises questions about his path to earning playing time with the Ravens. The Ravens have historically relied on a mix of veteran leadership and youth along their offensive line. Players selected in the middle rounds often begin their careers as backups, filling in for injured starters or providing depth along the line. Simpson may have spent his rookie season on the practice squad, a common pathway for undrafted free agents and late-round draft picks to develop under NFL coaching staffs.

In 2021, the Ravens drafted guard Ben Powers in the fourth round, adding competition for the guard positions alongside veterans like Bradley Bozeman and Patrick Queen. Simpson’s development would have been impacted by the Ravens’ decision to invest in additional interior line talent, as well as the emergence of other young linemen. Offensive line rotations in the NFL are often fluid, with players cycling in and out based on performance, injuries, and scheme fit.

The lack of public information regarding Simpson’s professional career may indicate that he has been a developmental player within the Ravens’ system. Teams often withhold details about practice squad players or those who are not active on game days, which can make it difficult to assess their progress. If Simpson has remained on the roster, he would have been working under offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris, who has overseen the development of several Ravens linemen.

For Simpson to secure a role with the Ravens or another NFL team, he would need to demonstrate significant improvement in areas such as pass protection, footwork, and consistency. Injuries can also play a factor in a player’s development timeline, as offensive linemen often require time to recover from injuries without losing their feel for the game. The Ravens’ depth at the guard position, combined with the natural attrition rate of offensive linemen, will ultimately determine Simpson’s opportunities moving forward.

Playing Style & Strengths

Given the absence of detailed college or professional game film, analyzing John Simpson’s playing style requires an examination of his physical profile and the typical attributes of offensive linemen drafted in his range. At 6’4” and 330 pounds, Simpson possesses the size and power expected of a guard in the NFL. Offensive guards are often tasked with balancing run-blocking responsibilities with pass protection, requiring a combination of strength, agility, and football IQ.

Simpson’s size suggests that he may excel in power-running schemes, where linemen are relied upon to drive defenders off the ball and create running lanes. His weight indicates functional strength, a key attribute for maintaining leverage and anchoring against bull rushes. In pass protection, guards must be able to slide laterally while maintaining a balanced base, and Simpson’s height could provide an advantage in terms of reach against edge rushers.

One potential strength for Simpson is his hand placement and punch mechanics. Offensive linemen who can quickly extend their arms and deliver a strong initial punch can disrupt pass rushers and prevent them from gaining an inside lane. Simpson’s ability to use his hands effectively would be critical in an NFL environment where defensive linemen are trained to use leverage against blockers.

However, without game tape or combine data, it is difficult to assess Simpson’s athleticism in areas such as footwork, lateral quickness, and recovery ability. Guards in the NFL must be able to set quickly in pass pro while also pulling and trapping in run schemes. If Simpson lacks elite athleticism, he may need to rely on his size and strength to compensate, which could limit his versatility in certain schemes.

Another area of consideration is Simpson’s football IQ and the technical aspects of his game. Offensive linemen must process complex defensive schemes, communicate assignments, and adjust to pre- and post-snap looks. Simpson’s ability to master protections, recognize blitzes, and maintain proper technique under pressure will determine his ceiling in the NFL.

In the run game, Simpson’s size could allow him to generate movement at the point of attack, particularly against interior defenders. Guards who can generate push and control defenders in the A-gaps are valuable in both zone and gap-running schemes. If Simpson has the footwork to reach defenders on the second level, he could become a more dynamic run blocker.

Ultimately, Simpson’s playing style likely revolves around his physicality and size. If he can refine his technique and develop the athleticism required for NFL pass protection, he has the potential to become a reliable starter. However, his long-term success will depend on his ability to adapt to the demands of the professional level.

Personal Life

Little is known about John Simpson’s personal life, as he has maintained a relatively low public profile both on and off the field. For many NFL players, particularly those who are not yet established starters, personal details are often kept private to maintain focus on their professional careers. Simpson’s decision to keep his life outside of football out of the public eye suggests a preference for privacy, which is common among athletes who are still in the early stages of their careers.

Given his background in South Carolina, it is possible that Simpson has ties to the local community, including family members or mentors who supported his football journey. Many offensive linemen come from families with athletic backgrounds, where the values of hard work, discipline, and teamwork are instilled from an early age. Simpson’s upbringing in North Charleston may have exposed him to the cultural significance of football in the region, which is known for producing NFL talent in both skill and line positions.

Off the field, Simpson may be involved in community initiatives or charitable work, though no public records document such efforts. Many NFL players engage in philanthropic activities once they establish themselves in the league, but for those still developing, these contributions may not yet be widely publicized. The Ravens organization encourages its players to participate in community outreach, so Simpson may have opportunities to contribute in the future as he establishes himself within the team.

Athletes at Simpson’s stage of development often prioritize training, film study, and on-field improvement over public engagements. The physical and mental demands of the NFL require a significant time commitment, leaving little room for extracurricular activities outside of football-related responsibilities. As Simpson progresses in his career, he may become more involved in charitable organizations or mentorship programs, particularly those focused on youth sports or education.

Simpson’s social media presence is minimal, with no active accounts under his name, which aligns with the tendency of many NFL players to limit their online exposure. Privacy is often a priority for athletes who wish to avoid unnecessary distractions and maintain a professional image. Without access to interviews or public statements, it is difficult to gauge Simpson’s personality or interests outside of football.

Legacy & Future Outlook

John Simpson’s legacy in the NFL is still in the formative stages, as he has yet to establish himself as a regular contributor for the Baltimore Ravens. For offensive linemen, legacy is often tied to longevity, consistency, and impact on the field. Players who become long-term starters or Pro Bowl selections are remembered for their contributions to their teams’ successes, while others fade into obscurity due to injuries, roster changes, or limited playing time.

Simpson’s path to legacy will depend on several factors, including his ability to overcome the challenges of transitioning from college to the NFL. The offensive line is one of the most technically demanding positions in football, requiring years of reps and refinement to master. Players selected in the fourth round often take time to develop, as they may lack the immediate polish of higher-round prospects. Simpson’s chances of becoming a reliable starter hinge on his ability to improve his technique, strength, and football IQ under NFL coaching staffs.

One potential positive for Simpson is the Ravens’ history of developing offensive linemen. The franchise has drafted and retained several interior linemen who have become key contributors, including Marshal Yanda, who retired as a six-time Pro Bowler, and Ronnie Stanley, a top-tier left tackle. The Ravens’ zone-blocking scheme places a premium on athleticism, footwork, and communication, which could benefit a player with Simpson’s size if he adapts to the system.

However, the Ravens’ depth at the guard position presents a significant challenge for Simpson’s future with the team. In 2023, the Ravens drafted Roger Rosengarten in the fifth round and signed veteran guard John Leglue, adding competition for the starting guard spots. With established players such as Bozeman and Powers returning, Simpson will need to outperform his peers to secure a meaningful role.

If Simpson does not find a path to regular playing time with the Ravens, his future in the NFL may involve transitioning to another team through free agency or trades. The league is filled with examples of guards and centers who began their careers as backups or developmental players before becoming starters elsewhere. Players like Quenton Nelson, who was drafted sixth overall, redefined the guard position, but most NFL guards follow a longer developmental curve.

Another consideration is Simpson’s physical conditioning and injury history. Offensive linemen are prone to nagging injuries that can derail their careers, particularly those related to knee, shoulder, or back issues. Maintaining peak physical condition is essential for linemen, as their technique and strength can deteriorate if they are not consistently in game shape.

In terms of long-term outlook, Simpson’s ceiling appears to be that of a starting guard in a zone or power-running scheme, provided he can refine his pass protection and maintain his run-blocking effectiveness. If he fails to secure a role with the Ravens, he may find opportunities on teams with weaker interior lines or those in need of developmental projects. The NFL’s demand for reliable offensive linemen ensures that there is always a market for players who can demonstrate consistency and durability.

For Simpson to leave a lasting legacy, he would need to overcome the initial hurdles of his NFL career and carve out a niche as a trusted starter. The path forward requires resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. If he achieves these goals, he could join the ranks of South Carolina’s contributions to NFL offensive lines, a legacy that includes players who overcame early obstacles to become key contributors. If not, his NFL career may serve as a cautionary tale about the challenges faced by middle-round draft picks in a physically demanding and competitive position.