Jeffery Simmons has put together a successful career as a defensive end for the Tennessee Titans.

The former Mississippi State standout dedicates a majority of his success to Tyrone Shorter. Before becoming a dominant force for the Bulldogs and the Titans, Simmons was coached by Shorter, who is at the helm of the Noxubee County High School football squad.

Simmons’ appreciation for Shorter led to the Tennessee defender surprising his former coach with a free, all-expenses paid trip to Super Bowl LVIII.

A Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, Simmons shared with WCBINews sports director Jon Sokoloff that Shorter has had a positive impact on his life.

“I didn’t have a father-figure growing up. Coach Shorter filled that role for me,” Simmons said.

In 4 seasons so far for Tennessee, Simmons has 189 tackles, 21 sacks, 19 pass deflections and 2 forced fumbles. The Titans star has appeared in 12 games this season with 44 tackles and 5.5 sacks.