Justin Simmons emerged as a premier free agent target on Thursday after the Denver Broncos opted to release their standout safety in a strategic cost-cutting maneuver.
Simmons becomes the first seasoned player to bear the brunt of the hefty dead cap penalties looming over the Broncos due to the impending release of quarterback Russell Wilson next week.
A second-team All-Pro honoree in four of his past five seasons, Simmons has consistently showcased his ball-hawking skills by intercepting multiple passes in each of his eight years with the Broncos.
His 30 interceptions since entering the league in 2016 stand as the highest among all NFL players during that span, having been drafted in the third round out of Boston College.
Scheduled to earn $14.5 million in the upcoming season, Simmons was in the final year of a lucrative four-year, $61 million deal inked in 2021.
With the Broncos grappling with a staggering $85 million in dead cap charges stemming from Wilson’s imminent departure, high-earning veterans on the roster are vulnerable to roster cuts. Simmons’ release marks the initial step in what promises to be a painful offseason purge for the team.
Other notable names potentially on the chopping block include left tackle Garett Bolles, linebacker Josey Jewell, and wide receivers Tim Patrick and Courtland Sutton.
Over the past three seasons, Simmons formed a formidable tandem with cornerback Patrick Surtain II, anchoring one of the NFL’s most formidable secondaries amid the Broncos’ playoff drought, extending to eight seasons, and their string of losing campaigns, stretching to seven.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Simmons was a pillar of community engagement, earning acclaim as the Broncos’ most active participant in charitable initiatives. Revered by fans, Simmons endeared himself to the Broncos faithful amidst the team’s struggles since hoisting the Lombardi Trophy following Super Bowl 50 in 2015.
In a series of posts on the social media platform X, the Broncos expressed gratitude to Simmons for his exemplary service on and off the field, lauding his enduring impact as a Bronco, characterized by his exceptional play, leadership, and philanthropy.
“Justin’s legacy with the Broncos transcends his on-field exploits, encompassing his unwavering commitment to uplifting others and effecting positive change,” the team remarked. “Whether in Denver or his hometown of Stuart, Florida, Justin’s influence resonated deeply, inspiring and mentoring countless youths while fostering community enrichment initiatives.
His profound dedication, both on and off the gridiron, will forever endure as a testament to his remarkable tenure with the Broncos.”
