Veteran free-agent safety Justin Simmons has reached an agreement to sign a one-year, $8 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons
Veteran safety Justin Simmons, a key figure in the Denver Broncos’ defense over the past eight years, has signed a
one-year, $8 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons. This move, which includes $7.5 million in guaranteed money,
marks a significant acquisition for the Falcons as they continue to build a more competitive roster in the NFC South.
Simmons, who was released by the Broncos in March to create salary cap space, brings a wealth of experience and a
proven track record to the Falcons. During his tenure with Denver, Simmons developed into one of the league’s top
safeties, earning two Pro Bowl selections and four Second-Team All-Pro honors. His ability to impact the game both
in coverage and as a tackler made him a coveted free agent, even at the age of 30.
In his final season with the Broncos, Simmons started 15 games, recording three interceptions, eight passes
defended, two forced fumbles, one sack, and 70 tackles. These numbers underscore his continued high level of play
despite the challenges faced by the Broncos in recent years. His leadership and playmaking skills will be vital for the
Falcons, who are looking to improve a defense that has struggled in recent seasons.
The addition of Simmons is part of a broader strategy by the Falcons to strengthen their roster. This offseason, they
have made several key moves, including signing quarterback Kirk Cousins and linebacker Matthew Judon. The
Falcons are clearly positioning themselves to be more competitive under head coach Raheem Morris, who is entering
his first season with the team.
Simmons is expected to form a formidable safety duo with Jessie Bates, who signed with the Falcons earlier in the
offseason. This pairing should significantly improve Atlanta’s pass defense, which was a weak point in the 2023
season. The experience and versatility that Simmons brings will be invaluable as the Falcons look to make a push in a
competitive NFC South.
Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts have remained relatively quiet in the free-agent market, despite having needs in
their secondary. The Colts, who also released several veterans this offseason, have opted to take a more conservative
approach to roster building, focusing on developing their younger players rather than making splashy free-agent
signings.
This contrast in approaches highlights the different stages of team-building that the Falcons and Colts are in. While
the Falcons are in a win-now mode, trying to make the most of the prime years of their key players, the Colts appear
to be more focused on a longer-term rebuild. This could lead to differing results on the field in the upcoming season,
with the Falcons likely to be more competitive in the short term.
Simmons’ signing with the Falcons not only boosts Atlanta’s defense but also signals the team’s intentions to
compete for a playoff spot in the 2024 season. As the NFL landscape continues to shift, the addition of proven
veterans like Simmons could be the difference-maker for teams on the cusp of contention【23†source】
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