There is still an abundance of safety players in the NFL when free agency begins in 2024. According to people aware of the decision, Pro Bowl safety Justin Simmons has been released by the Denver Broncos, as reported by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport on Thursday. Subsequently, the team made the announcement formally.
Thursday, the Broncos released the following statement:
“Justin Simmons’ impact as a Denver Bronco extends far beyond his exceptional play during eight seasons with our organization,” “Justin will always be a Bronco, and we thank him for the outstanding manner in which he represented our organization on and off the field. We wish Justin, his wife Taryn, and their children Laney, Shae and Kyler the very best in the future.”
Justin Simmons journey with Denver Broncos
Over the course of his eight seasons with the Broncos, the 30-year-old safety went from being a third-round selection in 2016 to being a two-time Pro Bowler and a four-time second-team All-Pro. The most of any player during the previous eight seasons in Denver, he recorded 604 tackles, 64 passes defensed, and 30 interceptions.
The Broncos, with their budget tight, decided to cut Simmons to save money. They also would have to balance the books with Russell Wilson being released.
It was Simmons’ obligation to deduct $18.25 million from the salary cap. Denver saves $14.5 million on the cap with $3.75 million in dead money by releasing the veteran.
Despite having an uncharacteristically poor season and numerous uncalled for missed plays, Simmons is still among the NFL’s best safeties. Being a ballhawk, he should have no problem locating a new team; Philadelphia comes to mind right away due to their need and the fact that Vic Fangio, Simmons’ previous coach, will be taking over as DC.
But as a wave of veterans enters the market, their combined earning potential may be reduced. Among the recently dismissed veteran safety is Simmons, who joins Jamal Adams, Jordan Poyer, Rayshawn Jenkins, Eddie Jackson, and Kevin Byard.
