Texas coach Sark says this junior isn't 'ruining practice' anymore

Colin Simmons is so good he used to "ruin practice." He'd sack the quarterback and the play would have to be re-run so others could learn their jobs. Now, a much more mature junior, the defensive lineman is helping keep practice in tact.

"I showed it in a team meeting the other day. He came free on a rush. I don't know if he came within four yards of the quarterback. He just kept rushing by, so that the other 21 guys that were out there ... the quarterback can still throw it, the DBs can still cover. He didn't feel like he had to go get near the quarterback. He's really practicing like a pro right now. - Texas Longhorns Coach Steve Sarkisian

Sarkisian ended his presser talking about how Colin Simmons has matured when it comes to practicing and helping the team out by not “ruining practice.”#HookEm | @TSTVSportspic.twitter.com/hp1oh2xHub— Nolan Clay (@nolanclay10) March 31, 2026

As a junior and (probably) the best player on defense, it is up to Simmons to take over a big leadership role. Much of team leadership comes from leading by example. Simmons doesn't need to show the coaches he can sack the quarterback anymore. They know he's one of the best in college football at it. The EDGE from Dallas can just show everyone how it's done at practice.

"He's setting an example for the other guys of how to practice full speed, but he doesn't have to get in the way of the quarterback." - Texas Longhorns Coach Steve Sarkisian

Simmons will be a key in Will Muschamp's defense this season. He is disruptive against the pass and he's excelling at stopping the run.

"He's doing a great job in the run game as well. I'm proud of Colin. You can feel speed, his explosiveness, his play making ability. But yet, he's not ruining practice. Everyone is still getting their reps." - Texas Longhorns Coach Steve Sarkisian

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Sarkisian: Colin Simmons maturity helping spring practice in odd way