Where Are They Now - Tim Simpson
September 18, 2014 | Football
Tim Simpson - OG 1988-1991
Removed from praise and glory, few offensive linemen in Illinois history are household names. Tim Simpson (@illini4life69) would be considered as one of those names. Simpson was an All-America guard in 1991 and was a two-time All-Big Ten selection. In his four playing seasons as a starting guard, Simpson protected Illini QB greats Jeff George and Jason Verduzco. His stellar play and leadership on the field helped lead the Illini to four-consecutive bowls, including a Big Ten Championship title in 1990. Simpson holds the school record for career games started after starting all 48 games in his career. He was also named Illinois' Dike Eddleman Athlete-of-the-Year in 1992.Simpson was selected in the 12th round by the Cleveland Browns in the 1992 NFL Draft. After his NFL career, he returned to Central Illinois, Simpson's hometown area, to play pro indoor football for the Peoria Pirates. He helped lead the Pirates to two Indoor Football Championships. In 2013, at age 43, Simpson decided to return to football and signed with the Bloomington Edge indoor football team to play in their upcoming season. However, Simpson chose to retire just before the indoor football season started.
In 2006, Simpson was inducted into the Greater Peoria Sports Hall of Fame based on outstanding performances during competition and community service off the field. Today, Simpson is a 6 Sigma DMAIC and CPS Master Black Belt at Caterpillar Logistics Inc., coaching and mentoring others in areas ranging from Operations, Quality and Human Resources. Simpson also remains involved with Illini Football year round. This past spring, Simpson was an honorary coach for the Orange & Blue Spring Game.
