The Denver Broncos shockingly released four-time All-Pro safety Justin Simmons in a cost-cutting move ahead of NFL free agency opening. The move comes after Denver released quarterback Russell Wilson, taking a huge dead cap hit in the process. It forced the Broncos to move off one of the two best defensive players.
A third-round pick of the Broncos out of Boston College back in 2016, Simmons quickly turned into one of the best ball hawks in the game. He’s recorded a whopping 30 interceptions in eight NFL seasons, including 19 over the past four campaigns.
Simmons has earned four Second-Team All-Pro selections and has been named to the Pro Bowl two times. To say that his resume is overloaded with accomplishments would be an understatement. It’s why he initially slotted in as one of our top-four NFL free agents immediately after being released.
The safety market is saturated with All-Pro and Pro Bowl talent. This could very well dictate what type of contract Simmons earns after playing under a four-year, $61 million deal in Denver. It will also likely expand the number of interested teams.
Related: NFL free agent tracker
Ideal Justin Simmons landing spots in NFL free agents
Here, we take a look at four teams who represent the most logicial landing spot for one of the NFL’s best defensive backs.
- Dallas Cowboys: We know Dallas is going to be in the market for a starting safety for new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer this offseason. It also helps that there is a saturation of players at this position on the market, especially when it comes to the ‘Boys NFL salary cap situation. As Jayron Kearse tests free agency, the idea of teaming Simmons up with Donovan Wilson makes a ton of sense.
- Las Vegas Raiders: Why not go after the best defensive player from a division rival? Despite the Raiders’ improvements on defense a season ago under Patrick Graham, there are still needs at all layers. Simmons would be a marked upgrade over Marcus Epps next to stud youngster Tre’von Moehrig, forming one of the better safety tandems in the NFL.
Related: 15 Las Vegas Raiders options in NFL free agency
Justin Simmons career stats: 604 tackles, 64 passes defended, 30 interceptions
- Indianapolis Colts: Julian Blackman is a free agent. Nick Cross just has not looked up to the task since the Colts made him a third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. In fact, he was limited to primarily special teams a season ago. GM Chris Ballard and Co. have several holes on the defensive secondary. Finding two starter-caliber safeties is among them. Adding a veteran such as Simmons just makes too much sense.
- Philadelphia Eagles: The release of Kevin Byard was more financially motivated than anything else. The move saved Philadelphia $13.7 million against the cap. It also created a major hole at safety for the Eagles. We’re not anywhere near sold on the likes of Reed Blankenship (99.0 QB rating allowed last season) and Sydney Brown (79.2% completion allowed) being answers. This is the type of move Eagles general manager Howie Roseman likes to make. Justin Simmons seems to be a perfect fit in Philly.