Naming the most viable free agent option to replace former Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick following the Jalen Ramsey trade

Justin Simmons makes most sense as Minkah Fitzpatrick's replacement

A two-time Pro Bowler and four-time second team All-Pro, Simmons may be 31 years old, but he played well for the Falcons last year, showing durability through 16 games and at least a remnant of his ball-hawking ability with two interceptions. 

He might not be the player who was one of the best centerfielders in the league during his time with the Denver Broncos, but that doesn't mean he is unworthy of a one-year deal, especially when analyzing the rest of the market...

• Julian Blackmon
• Chuck Clark
• Marcus Maye
• Tashaun Gipson
• Jordan Whitehead
• Marcus Williams
• Quandre Diggs
• Vonn Bell

To be clear, Simmons or any safety on this list would simply be a bandaid. A one year rental if you will. But the Steelers have told you all offseason they only care about 2025, or at least in this Super Bowl window. 

The Rodgers signing, the Metcalf trade, and now today is further evidence that this team is all in on 2025. So spending money on a safety like Justin Simmons or even a Marcus Williams or Quandre Diggs would just be a cherry on top for the Steelers. 

In the end, none of these players will provide the lift that Minkah Fitzpatrick did. But that's why Jalen Ramsey is there. Adding another defensive back with the resume of Simmons only helps solidify what the Steelers believe to be the best defense in the league.