Free agent Justin Simmons remains unsigned as the 2025 NFL offseason heads toward training camp. A surprising development considering his consistent production and leadership. Despite being released by the Atlanta Falcons after one season, Simmons is still regarded as one of the league’s most reliable and respected safeties.
Justin Simmons, now 31, started all 16 games for Atlanta in 2024, finishing with 62 total tackles, 7 pass deflections, and 2 interceptions. He remains a high-IQ player with excellent range, strong tackling ability, and the instincts to make plays. Even at this stage in his career, free agent Justin Simmons brings immediate starter-level ability and is one of the top remaining free agents on the market.
Several playoff-caliber teams should be monitoring free agent Justin Simmons’ situation closely:
The Philadelphia Eagles make a lot of sense as they are a true contender. While they have a pair of promising young safeties in Sydney Brown and Reed Blankenship, they lack an established veteran in the secondary. Simmons could provide much-needed experience and elevate the performance of the entire defensive backfield. Simmons also mentioned the Eagles as a team he would highly recommend signing with.
The Washington Commanders are building a new foundation under head coach Dan Quinn. The Commanders are also a team that was mentioned on Simmons’ wish list. Their defense is trending younger, but adding a respected veteran like Simmons would bring leadership to the locker room and help guide their young core, including recent draft picks in the secondary.
The Buffalo Bills currently feature Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin, but Simmons would be an immediate upgrade. With the team looking to stay in contention, a move for a steady veteran safety could help stabilize the unit.
The Cincinnati Bengals also stand out. They locked up their star receivers on offense, and their secondary is filled with young talent, but lacks a seasoned leader. Adding free agent Justin Simmons, who has the ability to play multiple roles, would provide versatility and balance.
Justin Simmons is still playing at a high level and wants to compete for a contender. As training camp nears, he remains one of the most valuable defensive free agents available — and a signing could come sooner than expected.
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