Mile High Report
Is a return to Denver possible for the former Broncos safety?
We have reached the point of the Denver Broncos free agency possibilities that is filled with sentimentality.
With Justin Simmons out there, many fans will look hope for a return of a player that was universally loved. Simmons embodied what it meant to be a Pat Bowlen Bronco. He was the face of the franchise during much of the post Super Bowl 50 era.
That means he was never on a team that found success. He endured losing seasons, never went to the playoffs, and was a true leader all the way through. He is a guy who many of us, myself included, root for when he isn’t playing against the Broncos.
Would it be in the best interest of the team for Sean Payton and George Paton to try and get him back in Denver?
Age: 31 | Experience: Eighth | Height: 6’2” | Weight: 202 pounds
Simmons is a guy who brings a ton of experience. He has some familiarity with Vance Joseph. His second season in the league was Joseph’s first year as the head coach in Denver.
Does that equal a return to the Mile High city?
Why the Broncos should sign Justin Simmons
The current roster at safety in Denver consists of Brandon Jones, PJ Locke, and JL Skinner. While Jones had a solid season, Locke struggled at times. Safety isn’t exactly top priority, but the defense would be well served if they could bring in an impact player at the position.
Simmons familiarity with the Joseph defense could be a boon to his chances at a return to the club. If the Broncos want to add a solid player who will be great in the locker room, I like Simmons.
He won’t bring a massive price tag with him either. He wouldn’t be a splashy signing. While he ranks in the top-10 of free agent safeties out there, he isn’t the guy who would be the biggest get at the position.
Still, his leadership and experience might be exactly what Denver needs in the secondary.
It’s doubtful that a 31 year old safety is high on Sean Payton’s list of needs this offseason. That isn’t to say that safety isn’t a need, but younger might be better here.
The Broncos are building something, and while there is an argument to be made for experience, the impact of a 31 year old free safety just feels like a move Payton and Paton won’t make.
I am sure that we can all talk ourselves into wanting Simmons back in Denver. But the new regime doesn’t have the same sentimentality. Age and need likely place Simmons outside of the target zone. Signing him just wouldn’t make sense.
If the Denver Broncos announced that they signed Simmons to a one year deal, that would make me smile. I would be happy...
