Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons (31) celebrates his interception in the first quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Empower Field at Mile High. Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Simmons lifts Broncos to first victory since October

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 12/18/22

Safety Justin Simmons and the Broncos delivered an early holiday present to the Denver faithful, a 24-15 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, their first win since October—ending a seven-game losing streak.

Even though Russell Wilson sat out due to a concussion, the Broncos' defense carried the team throughout the game, intercepting Arizona quarterbacks Colt McCoy and Trace McSorley three times.

Justin Simmons picks it off ‼️ #BroncosCountry

: #AZvsDEN on FOX
: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/W6A4BDcRnV pic.twitter.com/4gNytlS35z
— NFL (@NFL) December 18, 2022

Simmons reeled in two of Denver's three interceptions, proving he's still an elite player. Simmons has five interceptions in nine games this season.

How many INTs does Justin Simmons have today? ✌️@jsimms1119 | #BroncosCountry

: #AZvsDEN on FOX
: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/W6A4BDcRnV pic.twitter.com/5Fd3hE7xCg
— NFL (@NFL) December 18, 2022

Per Pro Football Focus, Simmons is the only player with three or more interceptions in his last five seasons, strengthening his case for a second Pro Bowl appearance.

Justin Simmons is a top ___ safety? pic.twitter.com/CDFgWjZ9N7
— PFF (@PFF) December 18, 2022

Denver could use this semblance of cheer since its season shipwrecked, which continues the organization's downward spiral since winning Super Bowl 50.

The Broncos have failed to win more than nine regular season games since 2016 and have a seven-year playoff drought—the league's second-longest.

Although Simmons may not save the season, his play gives the organization some hope for its future.

It needs players to bank on while it continues to rebuild, especially ones like Simmons, who is 29 years old and locked in on a four-year contract, per Spotrac.

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