Eight years in Denver made Justin Simmons a household name. One season in Atlanta left him searching for his next home. The veteran safety finds himself in an unusual position: still unsigned in free agency despite maintaining his streak of multiple interceptions every season he’s played.
Simmons isn’t just any free agent sitting on the market. He’s being selective about where he lands next, and his recent comments reveal exactly what he’s looking for.
Why Is Justin Simmons Still Available in Free Agency?
Following his productive eight-year run with the Denver Broncos, Simmons made the move to Atlanta in 2024. He started all 16 games for the Falcons, recording two interceptions and keeping alive his remarkable record of multiple picks in every season of his career.
However, those numbers don’t tell the complete story of his 2024 campaign. Simmons finished with just 62 tackles, his lowest total since his rookie season, and failed to register a single sack. Still, one of his two interceptions came against Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, showing he can still make plays against elite competition.
Despite the statistical dip, the two-time Pro Bowler brings valuable experience and playmaking ability to any secondary. His veteran presence alone makes him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their defensive backfield.
The reason Simmons remains unsigned isn’t about his ability. He’s admitted to being selective about his next destination, prioritizing the right fit over simply finding a roster spot.
What Teams Does Simmons Want to Join?
“I think Atlanta I would still pick 10 out of 10 times if I was in the spot last year,” Simmons said, via Sean Keeler of the Denver Post. “But in terms of where I’m at now, being a little bit more picky where we want to go and where we want to call home next . . . the next two years, a year, whatever it is . . . but a contender is No. 1 on the list right now.”
That statement aligns perfectly with what he told Kay Adams earlier when free agency began. Simmons specifically mentioned the Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, Cincinnati Bengals, and Buffalo Bills as teams that interest him.
Bills, Eagles, Bengals.
4x All-Pro safety Justin Simmons says, “it would be special” to sign with one of these teams. Where should he go?@heykayadams | @jsimms1119 pic.twitter.com/l5Mo2WzNdy
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) April 8, 2025
His focus on contenders makes perfect sense for a veteran at this stage of his career. Simmons wants to compete for championships, not just collect another paycheck.
Among his preferred destinations, Philadelphia seems like the longest shot after the Eagles drafted a safety in the second round. That move likely takes them out of the running for Simmons’ services.
Washington, Cincinnati, and Buffalo remain realistic options based on his comments. The Pittsburgh Steelers also enter the conversation after trading Minkah Fitzpatrick, though their status as a true contender might be questionable despite the upgrades they’ve made.
The Bengals stand out as potentially the best fit for Simmons. If Cincinnati can retain Trey Hendrickson on their defensive line, that pass rush would create more opportunities for Simmons to showcase his ball-hawking skills. A strong pass rush makes any safety’s job easier, and Simmons has built his reputation on creating turnovers.
