As the preseason approaches, Simmons stands out as one of the premier free agents following his release from the Denver Broncos during a cost-cutting initiative this offseason. The two-time Pro Bowler experienced a subpar year compared to his high standards, having missed more plays than usual in 2023. Nonetheless, he remains an agile safety capable of covering deep zones while providing support across the field.
During his eight-season tenure with the Broncos, Simmons recorded 30 interceptions—leading the league with six in 2022—alongside 64 defended passes, 4.5 sacks, and a total of 604 tackles.
The New Orleans Saints currently have Tyrann Mathieu and Jordan Howden, their fifth-round pick from 2023, lined up as their starters. This offseason saw them signing Will Harris to serve as a backup while former first-round pick Johnathan Abram adds depth to their roster. Pairing Simmons with Mathieu could offer coach Dennis Allen unique flexibility and enhanced coverage capability for the defensive backfield.
Simmons’ history includes working closely with Saints defensive coordinator Joe Woods when he was drafted in 2016; Woods later served as Denver’s defensive coordinator for two seasons thereafter. Moreover, Marcus Robertson, New Orleans’ current defensive backs coach and part of Denver’s staff as DBs coach during the years of 2017-18, shares substantial familiarity with both Simmons and this team ahead of his visit.
This season is crucial for New Orleans under head coach Allen’s leadership. Attracting one of the top remaining free agents at this stage could significantly bolster their defense’s performance on all fronts.
New Orleans Saints Eyeing Safety Justin Simmons as Preseason Approaches
Overview of the New Orleans Saints’ Defensive Lineup
As the NFL preseason approaches, the New Orleans Saints are actively looking to bolster their defensive lineup. The Saints have always been known for their formidable defensive strategies, and this year, they are eyeing safety Justin Simmons as a key target for their upcoming campaign. Simmons, currently a star player for the Denver Broncos, brings a wealth of experience and skill that could greatly enhance the Saints’ secondary.
Why the Saints Need Justin Simmons
The New Orleans Saints have struggled at times with their pass defense over the past few seasons. With the departure of key players and the need for a stronger defensive presence, the organization recognizes that a player like Justin Simmons could fill a crucial gap. Here are a few reasons why the Saints are considering Simmons:
- Proven Track Record: Simmons has consistently performed at a high level, earning Pro Bowl selections and recognition as one of the top safeties in the league.
- Leadership Skills: With his experience, Simmons could bring much-needed leadership to the Saints’ young secondary.
- Versatility: Simmons is known for his ability to play both free and strong safety, providing flexibility in defensive schemes.
- Ball-Hawking Ability: He has a knack for creating turnovers, which can be critical in close games.
Justin Simmons: Career Highlights
To understand the impact Simmons could have on the Saints’ defense, it’s essential to look at his career achievements. Here’s a brief overview:
| Year | Team | Pro Bowl Selections | Interceptions | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Denver Broncos | 0 | 1 | 32 |
| 2017 | Denver Broncos | 0 | 1 | 54 |
| 2018 | Denver Broncos | 0 | 2 | 65 |
| 2019 | Denver Broncos | 1 | 4 | 93 |
| 2020 | Denver Broncos | 1 | 5 | 82 |
| 2021 | Denver Broncos | 1 | 2 | 65 |
The Saints’ Current Safety Situation
Before delving deeper into the potential acquisition of Simmons, it’s important to assess the current state of the Saints’ safety position. The team has a mix of young talents and experienced players, yet they lack a clear standout in the safety role. Here are some notable players:
- Marcus Williams: A key player who recently left the Saints for the Baltimore Ravens.
- P.J. Williams: Versatile but inconsistent; his skills can be beneficial in certain schemes.
- Malcolm Jenkins: A veteran presence who has been impactful, yet is nearing the end of his career.
The absence of a dominant safety could leave the Saints vulnerable against potent offenses in the NFC South. This is where Justin Simmons could make a significant difference.
Benefits of Acquiring Justin Simmons
Bringing Simmons to New Orleans could yield numerous benefits for the Saints. Here are some of the advantages:
1. Enhanced Secondary Performance
Simmons has the talent to elevate the performance of his teammates. His ability to read opposing offenses and anticipate plays could lead to an increase in interceptions and pass deflections for the Saints’ secondary.
2. Stronger Run Defense
Simmons is not just a coverage specialist; he is also excellent against the run. His tackling skills and situational awareness can help shore up a run defense that has struggled in recent seasons.
3. Improved Team Morale
The addition of a respected player like Simmons could boost the morale of the entire defense. Players often rise to the occasion when they have a leader on the field, and Simmons has proven to be that kind of player.
4. Strategic Flexibility
Having a versatile safety allows the coaching staff to mix and match defensive schemes effectively. Simmons’ ability to play various roles can keep opposing offenses guessing.
What the Saints Might Need to Offer the Broncos
If the New Orleans Saints decide to pursue Justin Simmons, they will likely need to engage in trade discussions with the Denver Broncos. Here are some potential trade values and considerations:
- Draft Picks: The Saints have several draft picks that could be attractive to the Broncos, especially if they are looking to rebuild.
- Player Exchange: The Saints might consider including a player or two in the deal, possibly in a position where the Broncos have a need.
- Contract Considerations: Simmons is under contract, so understanding his current salary and cap hit will be crucial in negotiations.
First-Hand Experience: Saints’ Defensive Strategies
Players and coaches often share insights into how they utilize defensive strategies against different opponents. Former Saints defensive coordinator Dennis Allen emphasized the importance of communication in the secondary. He noted:
“Having players who can understand and execute complex schemes is vital. Adding experienced players like Simmons not only helps with on-field performance but also accelerates the learning curve for younger players.”
This insight reflects how Simmons’ experience and skill set could align perfectly with the Saints’ defensive philosophy.
Potential Challenges in Acquiring Simmons
While the idea of acquiring Simmons is enticing, the Saints may face several challenges:
- Salary Cap Constraints: The Saints have been known for their tricky salary cap situation, which could complicate any trade talks.
- Competition from Other Teams: Other franchises may also be interested in Simmons, making it a competitive bidding war.
- Fit with Current Roster: Integrating a new player into an existing system takes time and effort, as coaches have to ensure that Simmons can mesh well with the current players.
Case Studies: Successful Defensive Acquisitions in the NFL
Historically, several NFL teams have enjoyed success after acquiring key defensive players. Here are a couple of notable examples:
| Team | Player | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| New England Patriots | Stephon Gilmore | Key player in winning Super Bowl LIII |
| Los Angeles Rams | Aqib Talib | Significant role in defensive turnaround and Super Bowl appearance |
These examples underscore how impactful a strong defensive player can be to a team’s success, especially during critical moments in the season.
Practical Tips for Saints’ Fans
As fans eagerly await the Saints’ preseason moves, here are some practical tips to stay informed:
- Follow Official Channels: Keep an eye on the Saints’ official website and social media for updates on player acquisitions and team news.
- Engage with Experts: Listen to podcasts and read articles from NFL analysts who provide insights into the Saints’ strategies and player evaluations.
- Attend Preseason Games: Watching the Saints in action can provide a clearer picture of their needs and how they plan to address them.
By keeping these tips in mind, fans can better understand the potential impact of acquiring a player like Justin Simmons as the Saints prepare for the upcoming season.
