Alabama lineman holds four offers

Consistent, reliable and physical are three pretty good traits for an offensive lineman and all of those are common to the play of Bay Minette (Ala.) Baldwin County offensive tackle David Simon.

A starter at offensive tackle in every game since his sophomore year, Simon doesn't get much time on the sideline. That consistent play along with his effectiveness in the run game are parts of his game that he's understandably proud of.

"I started when I was a sophomore," Simon said. "I've started every varsity game and I've never been subbed out. I can play every down at tackle. I'm a heck of a reach blocker and I'm really good at blocking in the open field. They really run behind me and use me as a running tool."

At 6-foot-5, 285 pounds, Simon - who is commonly referred to as "Boo" - has great size to go along with his athleticism and physical mindset. That unique combination has sparked the interest of several colleges. Currently, he holds offers from Maryland, Mississippi State, Vanderbilt and Wake Forest. He also holds interest from the likes of Florida State, Southern Miss, Alabama, Auburn, Tennessee and Ole Miss.

"Maryland was actually my first offer," he said. "I got that a couple weeks ago or a month. Your first offer gets your blood pumping a bit. Later I got Mississippi State and Vandy. I've been in contact with Vandy for a while now. Actually, Vanderbilt's been recruiting me probably the longest. It's really gratifying to get these offers in. It makes you feel more accomplished about yourself."

Along with the offers has come a busy travel schedule for Simon. He has already been to the Southern Miss junior day as well as Duke. This weekend he has plans of heading to Vanderbilt for its junior day. He also has visits scheduled to Kentucky and hopes to get to Ole Miss, Auburn and Florida State scheduled as well.

With so many opportunities and so many schools that he is attempting to see, Simon has an idea of what he will be looking for.

"When I got there, I try to see first off academics because football doesn't last forever, even the NFL three years is the average so you can't live off that sum of money," he said. "I really look for if I can see myself going there in that environment. Then really it comes down to the coaching staff and facilities and is that going to be a place I can be for four years?"

Simon grew up a fan of the Crimson Tide and he has two parents as alums and a sister currently enrolled. Despite that he is keeping an open mind about his opportunities.

"I love Alabama but my decision is going to be based on where I'm happy and that could be anywhere," he said. "I'm really open."