NFL training camps are kicking off, and several solid free agents are looking for new teams. The Philadelphia Eagles are riding high after winning Super Bowl 59, but they could still use help on defense.
After the team said goodbye to C.J. Gardner-Johnson this offseason, one analyst named a four-time second-team All-Pro as a potential target for the Eagles.
Justin Simmons Could Finally Reach the Postseason if He Joins Eagles’ Defense
Philadelphia’s defense completely dominated Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 59. Mahomes ended up with 257 passing yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions, but was held to just 33 yards in the first half.
Both interceptions came in the first half, including a pick-six by cornerback Cooper DeJean. The passing defense overall was exceptional last season, allowing the sixth-lowest passing touchdowns and the lowest yardage total.
The final cherry on top of the perfect season
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The Eagles could use backend help after the surprise Gardner-Johnson trade, and Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox named Justin Simmons a potential target heading into training camp. Knox recently released his list of the best free agents available and sees a logical fit, although Simmons would be a luxury for Philadelphia.
“Safety Justin Simmons was released by the Denver Broncos early last offseason before signing with the Atlanta Falcons late in the summer,” Knox wrote, “However, the 31-year-old, who is hoping to sign with a contender, doesn’t hold any ill will toward Denver.
“Simmons should find an opportunity with a playoff-caliber team before the start of the regular season. He’s a two-time Pro Bowler who regularly starred in Denver and who had another strong season in Atlanta last year. In 16 starts last season, Simmons recorded 62 tackles and seven passes defended while allowing an 81.9 opposing passer rating.”
Simmons was a third-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. He had the misfortune of joining the Broncos as their eight-year playoff drought was starting, and leaving just as the drought ended. Despite the lack of team success, Simmons has been a consistent producer and led the league with six interceptions in just 12 games in 2022.
Knox continued, “Simmons’ desire to land with a contender could limit his market, depending on his definition of “contender.” The defending-champion Philadelphia Eagles, though, certainly fall in the category of contender.
“While safety isn’t a monumental need for the franchise, Philly could be interested in adding Simmons after trading away C.J. Gardner-Johnson earlier in the offseason. Adding Simmons would be a bit of a luxury move, but the Eagles are chasing championships and have $31.1 million in cap space.”
Reed Blankenship and Sydney Brown are the projected starting safeties for the Eagles after the team surprisingly traded Gardner-Johnson to the Houston Texans this offseason. Simmons could push for a starting role, but the Eagles could roll with their guys.
The Eagles selected Andrew Mukuba in the second round, and signing Simmons would create a formidable safety room.
Simmons still has enough in the tank to contribute to a Super Bowl Contender. Although his body would benefit from missing part of training camp, he likely wants to find a team sooner rather than later.
