Steelers Get Superstar Option at Safety

In this story:
PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have a superstar option they can sign in the free agency market. If the financial sides work out, the opportunity has presented itself for this team to put a Pro Bowler alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick - and they should strike at the signing.
Following his release by the Denver Broncos, two-time Pro Bowl and four-time All-Pro safety Justin Simmons is now available to sign anywhere. The 30-year-old is coming off a three-interception season, and has accumulated 30 interceptions over the course of his career.
He's never had a season without multiple interceptions.
“Justin will always be a Bronco, and we thank him for the outstanding matter in which he represented our organization on and off the field.”
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) March 7, 2024
Broncos to part ways with S Justin Simmons » https://t.co/JBRaBTQXDs
A statement from the Broncos: pic.twitter.com/CkAQLC6Pd0
The financial end is the big question mark. Obviously, Pittsburgh would love to add a second Pro Bowler alongside Fitzpatrick, but they may not be willing to pay as much as Simmons is worth. His last deal was worth $61 million in four years, and there's a chance his next one is still over $10 million per season.
Fitzpatrick is set to take on a $21.3 million cap hit this season, which would mean the Steelers are paying over $30 million for their safety position alone.
If the numbers make sense, the signing makes sense. Pittsburgh could keep Damontae Kazee and keep their three-man rotation. It would allow them to make it easier to move on from Patrick Peterson, which would save them roughly $6 million, clearing up a good chunk of what Simmons' cap hit would be.
The Steelers have options. Jordan Poyer, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson and Jamal Adams are all available and Pittsburgh should consider each one. But if they're shooting for the stars and want a sure bet, Simmons is their top option.
Make sure you bookmark All Steelers for the latest news, exclusive interviews, film breakdowns and so much more!
Steelers Can Score Big From Bills Cap Casualties
Steelers Predicted to Land Dolphins LB

Noah Strackbein is a Publisher for On SI, covering the Pittsburgh Steelers since 2019. A Jessup, PA native, Noah attended Point Park University, where he fell in love with the Steel City and everything it has to offer. You can find Noah's work at Steelers On SI and weekdays as the hosts of All Steelers Talk.
Follow NoahStrackbein