Draft Scout Matt Simms News

Quarterback Matt Simms, one of U of L's most celebrated recruits this offseason, will redshirt this year. Both father and son agree that's for the best. "He can learn more and grow up and get a little head start on school," said Phil, a Louisville native who won two Super Bowls with the New York Giants. "Of all the schools that recruited Matt, only one said he could come in and compete for playing time right away. That didn't flatter me at all."

Cardinals coach Steve Kragthorpe has the luxury of waiting on Simms because of his team's depth at quarterback. Senior Brian Brohm is a Heisman Trophy candidate, and junior backup Hunter Cantwell could start for most teams in the country. Redshirt freshman Tyler Wolfe has been impressive in practice the past two seasons, and junior Bill Ashburn has improved during his four years in the program. Matt Simms -- whose brother, Chris, plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- was recruited as the eventual successor in that long line of successful U of L signal-callers. He threw for more than 2,000 yards and had 20 touchdowns while leading Don Bosco Prep to New Jersey's parochial title last season.

He has good size for the position at 6 feet 3 and 195 pounds, and his upbringing ensured that he has a good understanding of the game. Simms will benefit immensely by serving an "apprenticeship" under a leader like Brohm this season, Kragthorpe said. "I can take my time and learn the offense," Simms said. "Maybe mature and put on some weight." - Brian Bennett, Louisville Courier-Journal