Justin Simmons would provide veteran leadership to a young secondary
In an offseason full of unexpected departures at the safety position, the Broncos' decision to release Justin Simmons might be the most surprising. The 30-year-old is still playing at a near-elite level, and he has three second-team All-Pro selections in each of the last three seasons to show for it.
The eight-year pro has shown a knack for making splash plays throughout his career, and he has never nabbed less than two interceptions in a season. He has also eclipsed three interceptions every year since 2018. Simply put, he's an elite playmaker whose ball production consistency has been unmatched.
On top of playing at a high level on the field, the veteran center fielder is also one of the best guys to have in the locker room across the entire league. I am usually an advocate for signing younger players at positions where the importance of speed and quickness get magnified, but Simmons is the rare exception to that rule. He may now be on the wrong side of 30, but he still has plenty to offer a young secondary that has added three new starters in the past two years.
Simmons, who just missed the Broncos Super Bowl run in 2015, will probably be looking for a team that can contend for a Super Bowl in his next stop. There is a significant amount of hype (and hope) around the Bears this offseason with the first overall pick in tow, and it could be a perfect pairing if the veteran believes in the vision.
One thing for sure is that he is one of the biggest fish in this year's free agent class. Chicago may have to pay up for his services, but he would be worth every penny if they do.