The New Orleans Saints have a talented defense that could get better with the addition of someone like Justin Simmons. Arguably the best free agent left on the board, the Broncos released the 30-year-old as they embraced the inevitable rebuild following the failed Russell Wilson experiment. Since then, the two-time Pro Bowler has waited out a saturated safety market as he looks for a new home. That new home could be in New Orleans, as Nick Underhill recently reported that Simmons is visiting with the Saints.
Visiting is the right word here. https://t.co/S5b2GYhFtT
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) August 7, 2024
Saints Host Justin Simmons On Free Agent Visit
Justin Simmons is no longer the borderline top-10 safety he was at the end of the 2010’s, but the longtime veteran is still a reliable playmaker who should seamlessly fit in with the Saints defense. Starting and appearing in 15 games last year, the Boston College product finished the season with three interceptions, eight passes defended, two forced fumbles, 70 tackles, and two tackles-for-loss. These numbers earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl as he finished with a 67.9 PFF grade, the 42nd-best mark out of 95 eligible players.
New Orleans could use a player like him, as the team has yet to find an adequate replacement for Marcus Maye. Due to the questionable status of their offensive line, the Saints will probably need to win games with defense, and Justin Simmons can go a long way in accomplishing that goal. Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo form one of the league’s better cornerback duos, while second-round pick Kool-Aid McKinstry holds plenty of promise. Tyrann Mathieu might not be a superstar anymore, but he’s still a good safety. If New Orleans can shore up the hole at the second safety position, then they should have one of the league’s better secondaries.
The biggest hurdle here could be money. The Saints have $11.8 million in cap space, so they should be able to afford Justin Simmons. However, they’re projected to be $91.6 million over the salary cap in 2025, so they’ll need to ensure no long-term consequences in this deal. Chances are, if New Orleans signs the veteran, it won’t be anything more than a one-year deal.
Main Photo: Isaiah J. Downing – USA Today Sports
