Former Ohio State defensive end John Simon became the second Buckeye taken in the 2013 NFL Draft on Saturday when he was selected No. 129 overall by the Baltimore Ravens.
The 6-foot-2 Simon entered the draft after finishing his four year career at OSU. During his senior season, he was named the Big Ten’s Nagurski-Wooden defensive player of the year after recording a team-leading nine sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss. He was also a third-team Associated Press All-American both his junior and senior year, as well as being named to the All-Big Ten team.
Called the “heart and soul” of the 2012 Buckeyes by coach Urban Meyer, Simon leaves OSU with 154 total tackles and 20.5 sacks.
Just a three star recruit according to rivals. com coming out of high school in Youngstown, Simon started every game but one during the 2010, 2011 and 2012 seasons for Ohio State. Simon developed into a team leader during his time as a Buckeye, and his five tackles for loss against Nebraska this past season tied a school record.
Simon was invited to the 2013 Senior Bowl and is expected to graduate in May with a degree in sports and leisure studies.
