King Simmons

Early life

King David Simmons was born on February 12, 1963, in Atlanta, Georgia. He participated in high school football and track at Killeen High School in Killeen, Texas, with his final year being in 1981.

College career

Simmons accepted a track scholarship to Texas Tech University. He was among the Southwest Conference leaders in the 4 × 400 metres relay during the spring 1982 track season. He also participated in the 110 metres hurdles during his time at Texas Tech. Simmons walked-on to the football team but did not play during the 1983 season. In April 1984, it was reported that Simmons had earned the starting free safety position. He was a two-year football letterman from 1984 to 1985.

Professional career

Simmons was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the 12th round, with the 319th overall pick, of the 1986 NFL draft. On August 26, 1986, he was placed on injured reserve due to an ankle injury, where he spent the entire 1986 season. Simmons was released on September 1, 1987, after the third game of the 1987 preseason.

On September 23, 1987, Simmons signed with the San Diego Chargers. He played in all three strike games, starting one, for the Chargers and posted 1.5 sacks. He was released on October 19.

Simmons was signed by the Indianapolis Colts on May 2, 1988. He was released on July 22, 1988, and thereafter started working for a marketing company in Austin, Texas.

On October 12, 1988, it was reported that Simmons had been signed to the practice roster of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League. He hit a deer on his way to the airport to go to Canada. He was later promoted to the active roster and played in one game for the Tiger-Cats, posting three solo tackles. Simmons was moved back to the practice roster, and later released on November 5, 1988. He signed with Hamilton again on May 29, 1989. He was released on June 30, 1989, after the first preseason game.

Personal life

Simmons was also an avid golfer.