NFL insider connects Pro Bowl safety Justin Simmons with an NFC Super Bowl contender…
It’s surprising that two-time All-Pro safety Justin Simmons is still a free agent with NFL training camps starting soon. After being released by the Denver Broncos this spring, the veteran remains unsigned.
Simmons, a third-round pick from Boston College by the Broncos in 2016, has become one of the NFL’s top safeties. He recently completed his second Pro Bowl season with eight passes defended and three interceptions, following a 2022 season where he led the league with six interceptions. Over the past three seasons, he hasn’t allowed a QB rating over 89 when targeted.
One obstacle is Simmons’ high salary demands, as he wants to be one of the highest-paid safeties in the league. With limited cap space available for many teams this late in the offseason, finding a fit is challenging. However, one contending team has been linked to Simmons.
NFL insider Albert Breer from Sports Illustrated suggests that Simmons would fit well in the San Francisco 49ers’ defense, which has historically used the Seattle three scheme and recently brought in Brandon Staley from the Fangio coaching tree, which Simmons is familiar with.
The 49ers, despite winning the NFC last season, fired defensive coordinator Steve Wilks and promoted Nick Sorensen while adding Staley as a top assistant. This defensive style suits Simmons’ strengths.
Additionally, the 49ers need a safety due to All-Pro Talanoa Hufanga’s ACL injury and are optimistic about sophomore Ji’Ayir Brown, who showed potential as a rookie. Adding Simmons, with his 604 tackles, 64 passes defended, and 30 interceptions, could boost the 49ers’ Super Bowl chances. With $30 million in projected cap space, signing Simmons is financially feasible for them.
