NFL All-Pro free agent safety Justin Simmons will likely draw interest this offseason as he’s one of the best on the market. According to reports, Simmons doesn’t expect the Falcons to bring him back since he said it was a “one-year thing” as he wants to play for a contender. Despite that, Simmons did operate as a full-time starter alongside Jessie Bates, who is in the books for the next two years. The safety was not able to match the success he had with the Denver Broncos for the past eight seasons, so the Falcons probably wouldn’t have brought him back either way.
The two parties are in different situations where Simmons wants to win, and the Falcons are rebuilding, especially under quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who is receiving mentorship from Hall of Famer Matt Ryan. However, Simmons did sign with the Falcons at the last minute, so that could be a reason, but either way, he probably won’t return to be a veteran presence for Richie Grant and DeMarcco Hellams. Originally selected in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft, the former Boston College product did record four All-Pro Nods and two Pro Bowls.
Simmons might not sign with a team on a long-term extension, but he doesn’t need to. The safety should receive interest from at least these five rosters this offseason after the NFL Draft.
Breaking: NFL All-Pro Justin Simmons Could Draw Free Agent Interest
Next Possible Teams
Los Angeles Chargers
Last season, the Los Angeles Chargers had one of the best secondaries in the league, which is why they’re bringing back Tony Jefferson and Elijah Molden on new deals. However, the defense will look dramatically different this upcoming as the team has been making changes to their cornerback group. Alohi Gilman is coming off an injury, and perhaps they shouldn’t rush him to start full-time again. The Chargers could sign Simmons on a temporary deal to push them for a Super Bowl run.
Simmons has the mindset and Gilman could use some mentorship for a reason. Derwin James Jr’s days may be numbered if he can’t stay healthy. The veteran might not do much, but with the right mentality from Jim Harbaugh, he could excel in this unit.
Kansas City Chiefs
After losing Justin Reid in free agency, the team has not found a capable replacement for him. Even though the team is bringing back Mike Edwards, he’s way past his prime to make any type of impact as a full-time starter. Jaden Hicks does have some upside to show, so it’s development to watch this upcoming season. The Kansas City Chiefs need depth and even though they may draft a safety this year, they at least need a capable veteran to take over.
Simmons is the clear answer for this unit to keep pushing them for another Super Bowl. This is the perfect opportunity for Simmons to finally be a part of a legitimate contender.
Baltimore Ravens
For the Ravens, they’re moving on from Marcus Williams after an atrocious 2024 campaign. Ar’Darius Washington will take over full-time duties after making impressions. If he can’t play a full season, they should aim to sign Simmons to team up with Kyle Hamilton, who had another phenomenal season.
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