"Fierce Hits, Fast Feet, and a Fire Fueled by Doubt"

Brody Simpkins

@brodysimpkins1

6'2, 215lbs, Class of 2027

Ashland HS, KY

Brody brings a fierce presence to the heart of the defense, pairing a sharp football mind with the toughness to meet a ball carrier head-on. He sees the play taking shape, gets to his spot in a hurry, and finishes with the kind of physicality that makes every yard hard to earn. Speed adds another dangerous edge to his game, but Brody points to his mental toughness and understanding of football as the strengths that help him make his mark.

Through seven weeks, he has piled up 77 total tackles, with 50 solo stops, 27 assists, 10 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, and 1 recovery. Brody keeps his explanation simple: he stacks good days and works to be consistent. That answer says plenty about the way he approaches a season full of violent collisions and quick decisions. Each practice gives him another chance to sharpen his game, and each snap gives him another chance to put that preparation to use.

His dedication began long before the season opened. Brody spent the offseason working on his overall speed and his ability to move laterally, determined to cover ground faster in every direction. He believes that preparation separates him when he steps onto the field, giving him the confidence to react quickly and attack what he sees. Speed has been his biggest improvement since last season, and it shows in the way he closes on a play before it can grow.

The wins over Raceland and Lawrence County have meant the most to Brody because they answered losses from last year. The Lawrence County game also tested him in a way the crowd couldn't fully see. He went into it with a separation of the SC joint near his collarbone and played through serious pain. That pain stayed with him for the following three weeks, making recovery a daily part of his routine. Ice baths, time in the hot tub, and STEM therapy six days a week helped him get through it while he continued showing up for his team.

Brody puts in plenty of work behind the scenes too. He lifts weights five days a week and sets aside three days for speed training and recovery. Those hours build the strength and movement he needs to play his position, while the recovery work helps him stay ready for another demanding week. His routine reflects the standard he sets for himself, even when nobody is there to count the reps.

He didn't describe a specific pre-snap key, but his football IQ shows in the way he values preparation and consistency. He wants to recognize what's developing, get moving, and bring his full strength to the tackle. With his sights set on a district title and an undefeated season, Brody has plenty pushing him forward. The doubters fuel his fire, and every game gives him a chance to answer them with his play.

I assess that Brody’s lateral quickness gives him the ability to change direction and stay with a play as it shifts. He can meet a runner near the line or chase into open field, bringing the same intensity to each finish. That range makes his presence felt well beyond the point where a play begins.

Brody gives his defense a linebacker who can make an impact when an offense tests the middle. He meets contact without giving ground and closes on the runner before a short opening becomes a big play. His physical play gives the defense a strong answer when the ball comes his way.