Report: Broncos 'Likely' to Approach Justin Simmons About Contract
The 2024 NFL offseason presents a crucial time for the Denver Broncos and their front office. While the storyline of Russell Wilson and what his future holds is the situation making the most headlines, the prospects of what ends up happening with second-team All-Pro safety Justin Simmons is another key domino soon to fall across the coming months.
Simmons will be in the last year of his initial four-year, $61 million deal, due $14.5 million during the upcoming 2024 season. He turned 30 last November and will soon be up for a new deal. For a team already dealing with significant cap hurdles, it's something to keep an eye on.
According to Parker Gabriel of the Denver Post, "some action is likely" on the 2x Pro Bowler's contract this offseason. Whether that ends up being in the form of an extension or restructure remains to be seen, but it all depends on which direction the Broncos want to go.
If Denver wanted to free up cap space, Simmons is on a non-guaranteed deal with a cap hit of $18.25 million. The Broncos could cut ties with him or even trade him elsewhere to get more flexibility, but it's a bit difficult to picture that when he's coming off one of his best seasons.
During his 2023 campaign, he had 70 tackles, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles. He also earned his second Pro Bowl appearance alongside his fourth second-team All-Pro selection.
Instead of parting ways, the goal for the Broncos is likely to retain Simmons while still having the ability to build a formidable supporting cast around him. He's been a critical component of the Denver defense for the past eight seasons, and it's hard to see that changing even with their sizable payroll on hand.
The challenge comes in when recognizing the Broncos are already $24 million over the cap before any decision has been made on Russell Wilson. While Simmons has continued to show high levels of production year in and year out, the financial aspects of his situation can ultimately cast some slight doubt on a surefire return next season.
If push comes to shove and the Broncos are forced to pivot off of him due to cap implications, the opportunity is there to do so. However, expect Denver to do what they can to retain their star defender into next season and beyond.
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