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Steelers Get Superstar Option at Safety

Originally posted on FanNation All Steelers
By Noah Strackbein | Last updated 3/7/24

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a superstar option they can sign in the free agency market. If the financial sides work out, the opportunity has presented itself for this team to put a Pro Bowler alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick - and they should strike at the signing.

Following his release by the Denver Broncos, two-time Pro Bowl and four-time All-Pro safety Justin Simmons is now available to sign anywhere. The 30-year-old is coming off a three-interception season, and has accumulated 30 interceptions over the course of his career.

He's never had a season without multiple interceptions.

“Justin will always be a Bronco, and we thank him for the outstanding matter in which he represented our organization on and off the field.”

Broncos to part ways with S Justin Simmons » https://t.co/JBRaBTQXDs

A statement from the Broncos: pic.twitter.com/CkAQLC6Pd0
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) March 7, 2024

The financial end is the big question mark. Obviously, Pittsburgh would love to add a second Pro Bowler alongside Fitzpatrick, but they may not be willing to pay as much as Simmons is worth. His last deal was worth $61 million in four years, and there's a chance his next one is still over $10 million per season.

Fitzpatrick is set to take on a $21.3 million cap hit this season, which would mean the Steelers are paying over $30 million for their safety position alone.

If the numbers make sense, the signing makes sense. Pittsburgh could keep Damontae Kazee and keep their three-man rotation. It would allow them to make it easier to move on from Patrick Peterson, which would save them roughly $6 million, clearing up a good chunk of what Simmons' cap hit would be.

The Steelers have options. Jordan Poyer, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson and Jamal Adams are all available and Pittsburgh should consider each one. But if they're shooting for the stars and want a sure bet, Simmons is their top option.

This article first appeared on FanNation All Steelers and was syndicated with permission.

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