The Missouri Tigers have made their choice for the starting quarterback position for the 2026 season, and it's none other than Austin Simmons, a transfer from Ole Miss. This decision, reported by On3, sees Simmons edging out redshirt senior Nick Evers and redshirt sophomore Matt Zollers for the coveted spot.
Simmons, a redshirt junior, brings a wealth of experience from his time with the Ole Miss Rebels. Originally stepping up as the starter after Jaxson Dart declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, Simmons was poised to follow in some impressive footsteps. Dart had set the SEC ablaze in 2024, leading the conference with 4,279 passing yards before being picked 25th overall by the New York Giants.
However, Simmons' journey hit a snag with an ankle injury during a Week 3 victory against Arkansas, opening the door for Trinidad Chambliss, a transfer from Ferris State Junior College. Chambliss seized the opportunity, throwing for 3,937 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just three interceptions, earning himself an eighth-place finish in Heisman voting and leading Ole Miss to the College Football Playoff Semifinal. With Chambliss securing the starting role for another season, Simmons sought new opportunities, leading him to Missouri.
Joining the Tigers on January 6, 2026, Simmons is ready to reignite the promise he showed as a highly-touted recruit. His experience in the SEC is a valuable asset, and he managed to outshine competitors like Evers, who has had stints with Oklahoma, Wisconsin, and UConn, and Zollers, who started two games for Missouri last season.
Simmons' journey is a testament to resilience and determination, and Missouri fans have plenty to be excited about as they look forward to seeing him lead the charge this season.