Missouri has re-signed quarterback Austin Simmons for the 2027 season, according to sources cited by CBS Sports. The move provides the Tigers with stability at the most important position ahead of a potentially busy transfer portal period.
Simmons began the 2025 season as the starter at Ole Miss before losing the job to Trinidad Chambliss and transferring to Missouri. In eight games with the Tigers, he has completed 63.3% of his passes for 1,952 yards, 16 touchdowns and two interceptions. His connection with receivers Cayden Lee and Donovan Olugbode — both among the SEC's top eight in receiving — has powered a passing attack that ranks fourth in the conference at 257.1 yards per game and 26th nationally in EPA per dropback at 0.19.
Offensive priorities
Retaining Simmons gives Missouri cost certainty as it works to keep key offensive pieces. Olugbode, a sophomore with 584 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, is expected to return for at least one more season. Lee, a senior who leads the SEC in receiving yards, could pursue the NFL but may also use a fifth year of eligibility. At running back, Jamal Roberts leads the SEC with 1,005 rushing yards, while Ahmad Hardy is recovering from a gunshot wound suffered earlier this year. Keeping at least one of them would bolster the 2027 offense.
Portal outlook
The offensive line could require portal additions, with several fifth-year seniors on the interior and left tackle Cayden Lee potentially entering the 2027 NFL Draft. However, having a proven quarterback like Simmons makes Missouri an attractive destination for both current players and portal targets, a selling point coach Eli Drinkwitz can emphasize as other programs face uncertainty at the position.
