Michigan State Spartans secure commitment from Derrick Simmons

Everything seemed to be going well during Simmons’ visit. He enjoyed his time with the visiting players, offensive players Mercer and Charlton Luniewski. His hosts had given him honest advice about the program and process, which had a positive influence on Simmons.

“They didn’t exaggerate the strengths of the program,” Simmons said. “They were very honest with me. They talked to me about some drawbacks that they may have seen. … Most of them didn’t do that because they really appreciated all of that, but they were honest with other programs that were interested in me.”

After Michigan State, Simmons went on a recruiting tour, visiting Purdue and then Illinois to finish the official visiting season before the summer break.

The fact that the Spartans survived Simmons’ visits to two other schools before his decision and also his late recruitment unscathed speaks volumes for Smith’s staff and the official visits they were able to conduct.

The Spartans were able to use the successful official visits to catch up with other late-round recruits, such as three-star cornerback Aydan West and three-star offensive tackle Justin Bell.

The Spartans now have 10 recruits from the month of June alone.