More than anything, though, Sims gained valuable experience, and it’s that experience Sims says has made him a better player in just about every facet of the game.
“Just knowing what to expect, having that one year of experience and working a lot harder in the offseason, taking care of my body, knowledge and studying is coming better,” Sims said. “I’m starting to recognize fronts and defenses and ways to get open and different techniques, all kind of stuff.”
Sims also tried to learn from some of the best in the business at his position, including Clay, but he plans on doing it more extensively moving forward.
“I watched Clay a lot and some of the stuff that he does is pretty outstanding,” Sims said. “Just watching Clay and Antonio Gates, I watched a little bit of him and Tony Gonzalez as well. That’s something that I will probably start doing, incorporating more into my game.”
For the moment, Sims is simply focused on continuing to make the most of the opportunity he’s gotten in Clay’s absence.
For the preseason opener, Sims’ goals are simple.
“I think it’s just playing fast, being decisive and quick,” he said. “Making quick decisions, trusting myself that I’ll make the right decision and just playing fast.”
