Broncos Players Sound Off on Justin Simmons' Release
Just a few days after the news of Russell Wilson's imminent release broke, the Denver Broncos sent shockwaves through the fanbase by releasing veteran safety Justin Simmons. The Broncos released the Pro Bowler on Thursday, clearing up $14.5 million in desperately-needed salary cap space.
Much like Broncos Country, Simmons' now-former teammates in Denver didn't take the news of his release well. Here's a look at how many of his fellow defenders responded to the news.
The Broncos spent the day honoring Simmons' contributions over the past eight years. The statement the team released was heartfelt, but it's cold comfort to the Broncos fans left to wonder who's going to lead this squad in 2024 and beyond.
Simmons joined the Broncos as a 2016 third-round pick, coming in on the heels of the team's Super Bowl 50 triumph. He worked quickly to fit in with the still-intact No Fly Zone secondary, and quite clearly, he made the most of the time he spent playing behind the likes of T.J. Ward and Darian Stewart, and in the same unit as Aqib Talib, Chris Harris, Jr., and Bradley Roby.
Simmons was leaned on hard in Year 2 by then-head coach Vance Joseph, starting games at every position in the defensive backfield. Simmons answered the bell, but it obviously stretched him a bit thin.
Vic Fangio came in the following season and quickly deduced that Simmons needed to stay at free safety, where he went on to become a perennial all-star. From 2019 on, Simmons ended each season with either a Pro Bowl or All-Pro nod, earning both for his 2023 contributions.
Simmons also was the NFL's co-leader in interceptions in 2022. This only scratches the surface on his impact as a Bronco, as his off-the-field contributions in the community and what he brought to the team as a leader were equally of the 'all-star' caliber.
It's a tough day in Broncos Country. Like Simmons' former teammates, Broncos Country is reeling and perhaps a bit grief-stricken.
Fans had buckled up for an eventful offseason, knowing that with the Broncos sitting at $20 million over the cap, there would be some painful decisions. However, Simmons was the last player anyone expected to be released, even considering his top-of-the-market salary.
Happy trails, Justin.
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