A Prestigious Recognition
Colin Simmons, a junior defensive end for the Texas Longhorns, has once again earned a spot on the 2026 Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List, a preseason honor that celebrates the nation’s most influential defensive players and includes Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott among its namesake.
The watch list recognition marks the second straight year Simmons has been named to the list, underscoring his sustained impact on the field and his growing reputation among national evaluators.
In his first two seasons at Texas, Simmons has compiled 91 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, 21 sacks and six forced fumbles, helping the Longhorns to a 23‑6 record and a series of high‑profile victories.
His breakout freshman campaign saw him lead the team with 9.0 sacks and earn the Shaun Alexander National Freshman of the Year award, a performance that set the stage for his current standing.
Simmons also collected four SEC weekly honors last season and was repeatedly named SEC Co‑Defensive Lineman of the Week, a testament to his consistency and dominance within the conference.
The Lott IMPACT Trophy, presented by the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation, is awarded annually to the Defensive IMPACT Player of the Year, a distinction that reflects both on‑field production and off‑field leadership.
Selection of the winner involves a national voter panel and the award will be announced at a gala event in December 2026, where Simmons will join a distinguished group of past recipients.
The Sporting News, the American Football Coaches Association and the Walter Camp Football Foundation have all highlighted Simmons’ achievements, further cementing his status as one of the most watched defensive prospects in college football.