Training camp is just days away, and safety Justin Simmons is still looking for a new team. After establishing himself as one of the league’s premier options at the position, Simmons joined the Atlanta Falcons for the 2024 season. While he didn’t play up to his previous form, he still had a solid season with two interceptions, seven passes defended, 62 tackles, and two tackles-for-loss. In a recent interview, Simmons explained why he’s still looking for a team.
“I think Atlanta I would still pick 10 out of 10 times if I was in the spot last year,” Simmons said. “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.”
Now entering his age-32 season, it makes sense for Justin Simmons to prioritize a winning environment over the largest paycheck. Fortunately for the defensive back, several teams with realistic postseason aspirations could use his services.
Justin Simmons Wants to Play For A Contender
Possible Fits
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders made it to the NFC Championship Game with a rookie Jayden Daniels and a first-year head coach in Dan Quinn. Now, the team has its eyes set on the Super Bowl, and Justin Simmons could add a much-needed boost to this secondary. Daniels can go blow-for-blow with any offense in the league, but it wouldn’t hurt to add a ballhawk like Simmons that can take away the deep ball.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs have a strong roster, but they must add some talent to the secondary to emerge from a loaded AFC. Fourth-round pick Jaden Hicks had a remarkable rookie season and looks like a potential fixture in the secondary for years to come. However, the other starting position could use some work, and Justin Simmons could bring a much-needed veteran presence to the room.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers made several big moves this offseason, notably adding D.K. Metcalf, Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Ramsey, and Jonnu Smith as Mike Tomlin builds a team capable of a deep playoff run. However, they also lost Minkah Fitzpatrick and could use someone like Justin Simmons to step into a starting role. DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill aren’t liabilities by any stretch of the imagination, but Simmons could add more security in the deep part of the field.
Carolina Panthers
This is admittedly stretching the definition of ‘contender,’ but the Carolina Panthers could make some noise in a weak NFC South. Bryce Young looked like the real deal down the stretch, and all the offensive pieces are back to support his growth. After spending the offseason loading up on defensive playmakers, Dave Canales’ squad could surprise in 2025. While they’re a long way from a Super Bowl, Justin Simmons could fill the biggest need remaining on this roster and help turn this young team into a sustained winner.
Main Photo: Kirby Lee – Imagn Images
The post “Number 1 On the List:” Justin Simmons Speaks On Preferred Team appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.