Justin Simmons rumors: 5 best fits in NFL free agency
Justin Simmons will likely be a top free agent if he becomes available in NFL free agency next month.
Since his arrival in Denver, Vic Fangio’s job was to get the best out of his defensive players. Two years later, he’s done that with Justin Simmons.
The former third-round pick from the 2016 NFL Draft has blossomed into one of the more well-rounded free safeties in the game. Over the past two years alone, Simmons, 27, has posted career numbers in pass deflections and interceptions while excelling in open-field tackling.
Last season on the Denver Broncos franchise tag, he exceeded expectations once again, meaning a high payday is around the corner.
Safeties have value still in the league but it also is based off the position and scheme fit. Teams that like playing more Cover 1 sets would love to utilize the free position while those who are run-heavy likely would rather a strong safety in the box.
Simmons can do a little of both, meaning he’ll be paid like one of the best regardless of where he lines up. And with 19 teams are under the $180 million salary entering March, any team outside the top 10 in pass coverage should look to bolster their secondary.
These five teams have the best chance at going after Simmons.
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. NFC North . player. 50. . Detroit Lions . 5
They were the worst defense in football. Yes, the Detroit Lions need to upgrade more than just Matthew Stafford this offseason.
Detroit will enter a new regime in a similar place as last time they entered a new regime. The defensive concerns were the reason why Matt Patrica was brought in to fix the problem. Instead, he won 13 games and saw the 27th ranked unit under Jim Caldwell diminish more and more each season.
Jeff Okudah has to be the next Darius Slay. His inconsistencies in coverage could have been due to a poor showing at safety. Duron Harmon and Simmons actually compliment each other well and would do wonders in Aaron Glenn’s system.
Glenn in New Orleans was known for using three-safety sets at times. Simmons could play a rover role, pairing with Tracy Walker up top and Harmon down low. Dan Campbell is looking to change the culture and here’s a pretty good way to start.
Anytime you can add a Walter Payton Man of the Year finalist, you’re in the right direction.