Star safety Justin Simmons remains a free agent, but the two-time Pro Bowler is “unlikely” to re-sign with the Denver Broncos.
Four-time Second-Team All-Pro Justin Simmons, one of the top free agents still available, is a reliable starter at 30 years old. However, Denver couldn’t justify his high cap hit after incurring significant dead money from releasing Russell Wilson. Unlike some teams that release players to re-sign them on more favorable terms, Denver seems to have moved on from the Justin Simmons era. According to the Denver Post, the Broncos are unlikely to re-sign him.
Broncos Unlikely to Re-Sign Justin Simmons; He Will Likely Sign Elsewhere
This development isn’t unexpected. Head coach Sean Payton is rebuilding the Broncos in his own vision, moving away from the existing roster. While Simmons still has good years ahead, he may be past his prime when the team is ready to compete. Denver is focusing on youth, aiming to see what the next generation can bring to Simmons’ position.
Denver’s actions indicate they never intended to re-sign Simmons. The team has already thanked him for his service and reassigned his jersey number to a rookie. While Simmons’ time with the Broncos seems over, he is expected to find a new team among these five possibilities:
Potential Destinations
New Orleans Saints
Dennis Allen needs to lead the Saints to the playoffs to secure his job. GM Mickey Loomis has addressed most of the roster’s needs, but a free agent safety like Simmons could strengthen the team. Simmons could complement Tyrann Mathieu, allowing Mathieu to play to his strengths. Though the Saints have limited funds, Simmons isn’t expected to command a high price.
New York Giants
The Giants lost star safety Xavier McKinney to the Green Bay Packers and plan to replace him with second-round pick Tyler Nubin. While Nubin shows promise, the Giants could use Simmons as a short-term starter. With Daniel Jones back for another season, the team needs a strong defense to compete, and Simmons could provide essential coverage against top division receivers.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers boast an elite defensive front seven but have vulnerabilities in the secondary. Adding Simmons could bolster their pass defense. Although financial constraints exist, Simmons would help deter deep passes and bolster middle-field coverage. Relying on a fourth-round rookie like Dadrion Taylor-Demerson is risky, making Simmons a valuable addition.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs focused on offensive talent in the 2024 NFL Draft but could use secondary support after losing L’Jarius Sneed. With Joshua Williams unable to match Sneed’s coverage skills, Simmons could enhance the secondary and assist in coverage.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens already have a strong safety duo in Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams. However, they frequently use three safeties, and Simmons would be an excellent addition. He could take on the role previously held by Geno Stone, allowing Hamilton and Williams to excel near the line of scrimmage while Simmons handles deep coverage.
