The draft industrial complex is too often riddled with asbestos. Groupthink settles in, marinates and few analysts are willing to think outside the box in fear of social-media condemnation.

Then, there’s Chris Simms. He sincerely does not give a damn.

I suppose that’s what happens when the sport itself nearly kills you.

What a pleasure to welcome a former Bleacher Report colleague back onto the Go Long Podcast. You can catch Simms daily on PFT Live and his Unbuttoned podcast, of course. He combines sharp insight, strong connections and his own eight-year pro career to bring the masses authentic coverage of this sport. Go Long OGs may remember our last conversation with Simms five years ago. We relived that traumatic moment in Tampa Bay:

This time, the focus is obviously the 2026 NFL Draft.

Topics include:

* How Chris Simms studies the draft each year. His takes are always fresh — what does his process look like?

* Patrick Mahomes. Once upon time, Simms was a lone ranger in his affection for the Texas Tech quarterback. What did he see that most draftniks missed? Hint: It’s probably the same thing Terry Pegula saw.

* Why he is all, all, all-in on Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza. The name “Joe Burrow” is seamlessly worked into his analysis.

* Which prospects does Simms LOVE? He’s a big fan of one dimunutive slot receiver.

* Psychos. You still need them in today’s game. Which prospect reminds him of Micah Parsons?

* His take on the Buffalo Bills’ offseason, specifically the infusion of D.J. Moore into this offense.

Video and audio is above. You can also access this episode on our Apple, Spotify and YouTube channels.

Will get to transcribing both this conversation and our pod with Matt Hasselbeck for those who prefer words. Also: Bob McGinn’s 42nd annual draft series is almost wrapped up. Today, he breaks down Caleb Downs and the safety prospects.

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