Johnny Sims facts for kids

Johnny Sims is a former American football player. He was born on October 14, 1967. He played as a lineman, which means he played on both offense and defense. Sims played for the New Orleans Night in the Arena Football League (AFL). He also played college football at Mississippi Valley State University.

Early Life and College Football

Johnny Sims grew up in Columbia, Mississippi. He played high school football at East Marion High School.

After high school, Sims went to Mississippi Valley State University. He played college football for their team, the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils. From 1986 to 1990, he was a defensive tackle. This position helps stop the other team from running or passing the ball.

In 1989, Johnny Sims had a great year. He made 88 tackles and 16 sacks. A sack is when a defensive player tackles the opposing team's quarterback. Because of his excellent play, he was named second-team All-SWAC. This means he was one of the best players in his college football conference.

Many people thought Sims would go straight to the National Football League (NFL). But he decided to stay at Mississippi Valley State for his final year. He wanted to help his team and new coach, Larry Dorsey, have a winning season. The 1990 team finished with a good record of six wins and five losses.

Professional Football Career

In May 1991, Johnny Sims began his professional football career. He signed with the New Orleans Night in the Arena Football League (AFL). The AFL was a league that played football indoors on a smaller field.

Sims played in eight games for the Night during their first season in 1991. He was an offensive lineman and a defensive lineman. In the AFL, players often played both offense and defense. This was called "ironman rules." During that season, he made 13 solo tackles, three assisted tackles, three sacks, and blocked one kick.

For his strong performance in 1991, Sims was named second-team All-Arena. This means he was recognized as one of the best players in the entire Arena Football League. The New Orleans Night finished their season with four wins and six losses. Johnny Sims was 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighed 285 pounds during his time in the AFL.

In May 1992, Sims signed with the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). He joined them as a defensive tackle. However, he was released by the Rams in November 1992.

Later, Sims signed with another AFL team, the Albany Firebirds, for the 1995 season. He was released by the team in February 1995.