All-Pro safety Justin Simmons is one of the top free agents still available following the 2025 NFL Draft.
Simmons spent most of his career with the Denver Broncos after they picked him in the third round in 2016. Just a few seasons ago, he was considered one of the league’s top safeties, but the Broncos waived him in 2024 to free up cap space.
He stepped in for the Atlanta Falcons when DeMarcco Hellams was injured during the preseason and quickly looked like a natural fit next to Jessie Bates.
In a recent interview, Simmons said he’d like to stay in Atlanta. He praised the team’s culture but acknowledged that football is a business and teams have tough decisions to make.
3 Potential Landing Spots for NFL Free Agent Justin Simmons
If the Falcons aren’t able to bring Simmons back, another team will likely jump at the chance. He may be 31, but Simmons showed in 2024 that he still has plenty left in the tank and brings reliable veteran leadership.
Here are three teams that make a lot of sense for the former All-Pro.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles lost C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the Texans and Darius Slay Jr. to the Steelers this offseason, leaving gaps in the secondary. While Reed Blankenship and Sydney Brown could take on strong safety roles, neither is ideal in deep coverage.
They drafted Texas standout Andrew Mukuba in the second round, but still need depth and leadership in the defensive backfield.
Simmons already has a connection with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio from their time in Denver and has reportedly expressed interest in a reunion. Fangio knows how to get the best out of Simmons, and with the Eagles in win-now mode, the fit makes sense for both sides.
Washington Commanders
Simmons has also shown interest in joining Commanders head coach Dan Quinn. He’s said he likes the balance of young and veteran talent on Washington’s roster, as well as the leadership already in place.
Washington signed Will Harris this offseason but lost Jeremy Chinn, so there’s still a need at safety.
The Commanders took a big step forward in 2024 with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Adding Simmons would be an affordable way to bolster a defense that’s improving each year.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers had significant issues stopping the run in 2024 and are trying to rebuild a unit that PFSN ranked weakest in its Defense+ metrics last season.
Simmons isn’t a pure run-stopper, but he’s a smart, athletic player who can help steady the unit. He’d be a strong fit alongside fellow newcomer Tre’von Moehrig and fourth-round pick Lathan Ransom.
While Carolina won’t fix its defense overnight, adding Simmons gives them another quality player who brings experience and doesn’t come with a massive price tag.
