Overview
- Simmons left Texas' game against UTSA at halftime, finished the box score with one sack, and was seen on the sideline in street clothes wearing a walking boot.
- Eyewitness accounts and game video show a flagged block in the back late in the first half that may have led to the stoppage, but reports conflict on the exact timing and mechanism of the injury.
- Sarkisian described the move as precautionary and expressed optimism about Simmons' condition, but the team has not provided a formal injury diagnosis or timetable for return.
- Freshman Richard Wesley received additional snaps in Simmons' absence and could see an expanded role if Simmons misses upcoming games such as the SEC opener at Tennessee.
- Simmons entered 2026 as a preseason All‑American after 12 sacks last season and a possible first‑round projection, so any confirmed foot or ankle issue could affect Texas' pass rush and his draft evaluation.