Wink Martindale update on Isaiah Simmons is great for the NY Giants defense

Wink Martindale knows Isaiah Simmons will be a key player for the G-Men in 2023
SiriusXM At Super Bowl LVII - Feb. 9
SiriusXM At Super Bowl LVII - Feb. 9 / Cindy Ord/GettyImages
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People in New York and New Jersey are still pumped over the NY Giants trading for former first-round pick Isaiah Simmons. People wanted him in East Rutherford in 2020, but hey, better late than never. While it's unknown exactly where Simmons will line up in '23, it doesn't matter.

That's the message that defensive coordinator Wink Martindale has for Big Blue supporters about the inside linebacker/safety playmaker. Martindale was asked about Simmons' role for this defense once the Giants face Dallas on Sunday night. Wink made it quite clear that Simmons could take the field at multiple different spots - which is a great thing for his group.

Isaiah Simmons figures to play a massive role for the Giants in 2023

"He's perfect for this defense. It's not about what position we're gonna play him - we're gonna play him wherever we need him because he can do so many different things. I've talked before about positionless defense. He's perfect for that."

Wink Martindale on Isaiah Simmons

As soon as the trade for Simmons was announced, plenty of NY fans assumed that he would start at ILB next to Bobby Okereke. However, nothing has been set in stone and there's a good chance we'll see second-year 'backer Micah McFadden get the start vs. Dallas.

However, the fact of the matter is that Simmons is still going to get plenty of playing time either at ILB or safety. His versatility could prove to be gold for Martindale and head man Brian Daboll. The Giants only giving up a seventh-round pick for Simmons' services feels like a major steal.

Things weren't going well for Simmons with the Cardinals and a fresh start was needed. Last year for the NFC West side, the 6-4, 240-pounder posted 99 tackles and four sacks. The year before, he finished with 105 stops and 1.5 sacks. The potential is there for him to be a difference-maker for the G-Men this fall and winter, no doubt. You know Martindale will bring out the best in him too.

READ MORE: 4 NY Giants who must step their game up vs. Dallas