Last yr, Justin Simmons was among the many veteran safeties who remained available on the market deep into free agency. He ultimately took a take care of the Falcons in August, but one other change of scenery is predicted this time around.
In 2024, Simmons made it clear signing with a playoff contender was his top priority. The 2-time Pro Bowler took a one-year pact with the Falcons in a bid to achieve the postseason for the primary time in his profession. Things didn’t work out as planned on that front, but appearing within the playoffs is once more Simmons’ principal goal.
“I believe Atlanta I might still pick 10 out of 10 times if I used to be within the spot [I was in] last yr,” the 31-year-old said in an interview with Sean Keeler of the Denver Post. “But by way of where I’m at now, [I’m] being a little bit bit more picky where we wish to go and where we wish to call home next… the subsequent two years, a yr, whatever it’s… but a contender is No. 1 on the list without delay.”
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 within the wake of the C.J. Gardner-Johnson trade, Philadelphia could actually use an experienced addition within the secondary. Joining the Super Bowl champions would also allow for Simmons to reunite with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio after the 2 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 copy the ball production of his best Broncos seasons. An extended-term deal is unlikely no matter where he winds up in 2025, and his next contract could check in at a lower rate. Still, any variety of teams could stand so as to add a veteran of 134 games who has appeared on the second All-Pro team 4 times in his profession.
Then again, the list of significant contenders still in need of starters at the security spot just before training camp is relatively short. It’s going to be interesting to see when Simmons signs his latest pact and if his next destination provides him with the chance to play postseason football for the primary time in his profession.