Pro Football Rumors
Last year, Justin Simmons was among the veteran safeties who remained on the market deep into free agency. He ultimately took a deal with the Falcons in August, but another change of scenery is expected this time around.
In 2024, Simmons made it clear signing with a playoff contender was his top priority. The two-time Pro Bowler took a one-year pact with the Falcons in a bid to reach the postseason for the first time in his career. Things did not work out as planned on that front, but appearing in the playoffs is once again Simmons’ main goal.
“I think Atlanta I would still pick 10 out of 10 times if I was in the spot [I was in] last year,” the 31-year-old said in an interview with Sean Keeler of the Denver Post. “But in terms of where I’m at now, [I’m] being a little bit more picky where we want to go and where we want to call home next… the next two years, a year, whatever it is… but a contender is No. 1 on the list right now.”
The Panthers have shown interest in Simmons, although a report from last month indicated no deal was imminent. The Eagles are also on the nine-year veteran’s shortlist, and in the wake of the C.J. Gardner-Johnson trade, Philadelphia could certainly use an experienced addition in the secondary. Joining the Super Bowl champions would also allow for Simmons to reunite with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio after the two worked together in Denver.
Playing on a $7.5MM pact last season, Simmons operated as a full-time starter in Atlanta but was unable to replicate the ball production of his best Broncos seasons. A long-term deal is unlikely regardless of where he winds up in 2025, and his next contract could check in at a lower rate. Still, any number of teams could stand to add a veteran of 134 games who has appeared on the second All-Pro team four times in his career.
On the other hand, the list of serious contenders still in need of starters at the safety spot just before training camp is comparatively short. It will be interesting to see when Simmons signs his latest pact and if his next destination provides him with the opportunity to play postseason football for the first time in his career.
