As the NFL free agency period approaches, safety Justin Simmons is set to become one of the most sought-after players on the market. After spending the past five seasons with the Denver Broncos, Simmons is now looking for the "best situation" that will allow him to thrive and take his career to the next level. In this article, we'll delve into Simmons' background, his current situation, and what he's looking for in a new team.
A Brief Background on Justin Simmons
Justin Simmons was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Since then, he has established himself as one of the top safeties in the league, known for his exceptional ball-hawking skills, versatility, and athleticism. Over the course of his career, Simmons has recorded 17 interceptions, 32 passes defensed, and 373 tackles. His impressive performance on the field has earned him a Pro Bowl selection and a Second-Team All-Pro nod.
Current Situation and Free Agency
Simmons' contract with the Broncos expired at the end of the 2022 season, making him an unrestricted free agent. While the Broncos have expressed interest in re-signing him, Simmons is taking his time to explore all available options. In a recent interview, he mentioned that he's looking for the "best situation" that will allow him to compete for a championship and grow as a player. This suggests that Simmons is prioritizing a team's winning culture, coaching staff, and overall roster depth.
What Simmons is Looking for in a New Team
So, what exactly is Simmons looking for in a new team? Based on his comments and past performances, here are a few key factors that might influence his decision:
Competitive roster: Simmons wants to join a team that has a legitimate shot at winning a Super Bowl. He's likely looking for a roster with a strong core of players, a solid quarterback, and a stout defense.
Defensive scheme: As a safety, Simmons thrives in a system that allows him to play freely and make plays on the ball. He might prefer a team that runs a scheme similar to the Broncos', which emphasizes aggressive play and ball-hawking.
Coaching staff: Simmons has spoken highly of his experience with the Broncos' coaching staff, particularly defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. He may be looking for a team with a similar coaching philosophy and a staff that can help him continue to grow as a player.
Potential Landing Spots
While it's difficult to predict exactly where Simmons will end up, several teams could be a good fit based on his criteria. Some potential landing spots include:
Los Angeles Chargers: The Chargers have a strong young core, a talented quarterback in Justin Herbert, and a defensive scheme that emphasizes aggression and ball-hawking.
Indianapolis Colts: The Colts have a solid roster, a strong coaching staff, and a defensive scheme that could utilize Simmons' skills effectively.
Cleveland Browns: The Browns have a talented young roster, a strong defensive line, and a coaching staff that emphasizes aggressive play.
As the free agency period approaches, all eyes will be on Justin Simmons to see where he'll end up. With his impressive skillset and clear priorities, Simmons is sure to find a team that meets his needs and allows him to thrive. Will he stay in Denver or explore new opportunities elsewhere? Only time will tell.
