Austin Simmons Commits to Missouri for 2027 Season

In a move that should quiet a lot of speculation around Columbia, Missouri’s starting quarterback Austin Simmons has officially re‑signed with the Tigers for the 2027 season, according to reports from ESPN’s Pete Thamel.

The deal isn’t a lock‑step commitment to stay in college forever – the contract still permits Simmons to walk into the 2027 NFL Draft should his stock rise enough. When asked for clarification, a university spokesperson declined to comment, leaving fans to wonder what the quarterback will ultimately decide.

Simmons arrived in Columbia just before the 2025 offseason after three years at Ole Miss. Since taking over as the starter, he’s put up numbers that have the SEC taking notice: 152 completions on 240 attempts, 16 touchdowns and only two picks, propelling Missouri to a solid 6‑2 record so far.

The left‑handed signal‑caller hails from Moore Haven, Florida, where he was a three‑star recruit out of Moore Haven High. He’s earned a reputation for pinpoint accuracy, often threading the ball into tight windows that many would deem impossible.

Beyond Simmons, several of the Tigers’ skill players will also have another year of eligibility. Running backs Ahmad Hardy and Jamal Roberts, receivers Donovan Olugbode, Cayden Lee and Naeshaun Montgomery, and offensive linemen Cayden Green and Luke Work are all positioned to return for 2027, with some already drawing NFL buzz.

Missouri’s last quarterback to be drafted was Drew Lock, taken 42nd overall by the Denver Broncos in 2019. More recently, Connor Bazelak and Brady Cook spent time on NFL rosters – Cook even saw action with the Miami Dolphins after a rough rookie stint with the Jets.

Statistically, Simmons sits fourth in the SEC for passing yards and is tied for fourth in passing touchdowns. He’ll have a chance to boost those rankings in a daunting four‑game stretch that includes matchups against No. 7 Texas, No. 2 Georgia, No. 6 Kentucky and unranked Oklahoma.

Missouri opens that stretch on Saturday at 11 a.m. against Texas at Memorial Stadium, a game that could prove pivotal for both Simmons’ draft stock and the Tigers’ bowl hopes.