Austin Simmons re-signs with Missouri — Missouri has secured a cornerstone for its future by re-signing quarterback Austin Simmons for the 2027 season, a move that provides the Tigers with proven stability at the sport’s most critical position. The agreement, confirmed by sources to CBS Sports, allows Missouri to enter the offseason with clarity under center while other programs may face uncertainty.
Simmons, who began the 2025 campaign as Ole Miss’s starter before losing the job to Trinidad Chambliss, transferred to Missouri and has thrived in his first year with the Tigers. Through eight games, he has completed 63.3% of his passes for 1,952 yards, 16 touchdowns and just two interceptions, positioning Missouri in the College Football Playoff conversation.
Surrounding Talent Fuels Success
Simmons’s production has been boosted by a talented supporting cast. Wide receivers Cayden Lee and Donovan Olugbode both rank among the top eight in the SEC in receiving yards, helping Missouri field the conference’s fourth-ranked passing offense at 257.1 yards per game. The aerial attack also ranks 26th nationally in EPA per dropback at 0.19, underscoring its efficiency.
With Simmons locked in, Missouri can now focus on retaining key pieces around him. Olugbode, a sophomore with 584 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, has at least one more college season ahead and figures to be a priority. Lee, a senior who leads the SEC in receiving yards, could opt for the NFL, but if he returns for a fifth year, he would likely command significant interest elsewhere. Given his rapport with Simmons, re-signing Lee would be costly but worthwhile.
Backfield Decisions Loom
The running back room presents similar choices. Jamal Roberts, the SEC’s leading rusher with 1,005 yards, could declare for the NFL draft, as could Ahmad Hardy, though Hardy may want to prove his full recovery from a gunshot wound suffered earlier this year. Keeping at least one of them would be a major boost for the 2027 offense.
Offensive Line Work Ahead
Where Missouri may need to lean on the transfer portal is along the offensive line. Several fifth-year seniors dot the interior, and left tackle Cayden Lee could be a 2027 NFL Draft pick. If those players depart, the Tigers will have to rebuild up front. Locking in Simmons now gives the staff a head start on that plan.
Perhaps most importantly, having a proven quarterback makes Missouri an attractive destination for current players and portal additions alike. While other teams may endure turnover at the position, the Tigers can pitch stability under center—a significant advantage for coach Eli Drinkwitz and his staff as they navigate the offseason.
