The Denver Broncos are paying for his or her determination to signal quarterback Russell Wilson to a five-year $242.5 million contract in 2022 in numerous methods, together with being put in a brutal wage cap scenario that compelled their hand to launch Professional Bowl security Justin Simmons.
The Broncos cleared $14.5 million of cap area, however they misplaced one of many league’s greatest safeties who has been named an AP Second Workforce All-Professional in 4 of the previous 5 seasons and a central cog of the workforce’s defensive unit.
Nonetheless taking part in at a excessive degree, Simmons recorded 70 mixed tackles, eight cross deflections, three interceptions, two compelled fumbles, and a sack, showcasing his versatile ability set as a succesful defender towards the run and cross.
Whereas his time in Denver is over after a powerful eight-year stint, Simmons has loads left within the tank to supply and will have a number of suitors as we method the free company and the brand new league 12 months, with these three groups serving as the most effective free-agent locations for the gifted veteran.
The Philadelphia Eagles flamed out over the ultimate two months of the season, shedding 5 of their final six common season video games after a 10-1 begin, ceding home-field benefit within the first spherical of the playoffs and being eradicated by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Their incapacity to defend towards the cross performed a essential function within the workforce’s fall from grace.
Philadelphia ranked thirty first in passing touchdowns per recreation allowed (2.1) and thirtieth in passing yards allowed (255.7) whereas boasting the league’s third-highest passer score allowed to opponents (98.8). In different phrases, the Eagles may desperately use secondary assist.
Simmons, who can play both security place, would slot into the workforce’s beginning free security function alongside defensive again Reed Blankenship after the workforce’s current determination to half methods with former All-Professional Kevin Byard.
The Eagles traded for Byard forward of final 12 months’s commerce deadline to bolster the again finish of their protection however is now on the open market after failing to depart his mark in Philadelphia, paving the way in which for Simmons to slip in and take his spot.
With roughly $40 million in cap area, the Eagles have the monetary sources to supply Simmons an opportunity to compete for a Tremendous Bowl as he enters the again 9 of his profession.
