Simmons retires, other WSU links

COUGARS

FROM PULLMAN — Mansel Simmons wrote on his Facebook page yesterday that he has given up football due to head injuries sustained in a fight with an Idaho football player earlier this spring.

Simmons, a third-year sophomore receiver, was knocked unconscious and suffered a concussion after being punched during an altercation on March 24 in Pullman.

Simmons wrote, in part: “Although I am saddened and extremely disappointed that I will never have the opportunity to play this amazing (game) ever again because of my faith, I do not question Gods plan for me.”

Simmons, a native of Elk Grove, Calif., had already dealt with injury in seasons prior to the fight, which Cmdr. Chris Tennant said a few weeks ago might not result in charges due to conflicting witness statements.

…

Not much in the WSU links department today, save for a recap of our live chat and this brief story by Howie Stalwick about Simmons.

Around the Pac-12 … A former Arizona State linebacker wants to prove his doubters and haters and critics all wrong, gosh darn it. … Oregon’s spring game will be simplified due to injuries. … A position switch may be helping a Colorado prospect’s draft chances. … John Canzano thinks Oregon State has more at stake in its spring game than Oregon. Me? I don’t think anyone has anything at stake in any spring game. … UCLA’s football team is embracing technology. … A former Washington cornerback awaits the NFL call .

That’s it for today.

Christian Caple can be reached at christianc@spokesman.com . Twitter: @ChristianCaple