Report indicates that the Broncos are expected to initiate discussions with Justin Simmons regarding his contract.
The upcoming 2024 NFL offseason is a critical juncture for the Denver Broncos and their management team. While much attention is focused on the uncertain future of Russell Wilson, the fate of second-team All-Pro safety Justin Simmons is another significant storyline awaiting resolution in the months ahead.
Simmons, who is entering the final year of his initial four-year, $61 million contract and is due $14.5 million in the upcoming 2024 season, turned 30 last November and will soon be negotiating a new deal. This presents a challenge for a team already grappling with considerable salary cap constraints.
According to Parker Gabriel of the Denver Post, there’s a likelihood of some action regarding the two-time Pro Bowler’s contract this offseason. Whether this involves an extension or a restructuring remains to be seen and will depend on the Broncos’ strategic direction.
While Simmons currently carries a non-guaranteed deal with a cap hit of $18.25 million, allowing the Broncos to potentially free up cap space by releasing or trading him, such a move seems improbable given his stellar performance in the 2023 season.
In that season, Simmons recorded 70 tackles, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles, earning his second Pro Bowl nod and fourth second-team All-Pro selection.
Rather than parting ways, the Broncos’ objective is likely to retain Simmons while still managing to assemble a strong supporting cast around him. He has been a linchpin of the Denver defense for the past eight seasons, and his importance is unlikely to diminish despite the team’s significant payroll commitments.
However, the Broncos face a daunting financial challenge, being $24 million over the salary cap even before any decisions are made regarding Russell Wilson. While Simmons has consistently delivered top-tier performance, the financial considerations could introduce some uncertainty regarding his future with the team for the upcoming season.
Should the Broncos find themselves compelled to make tough decisions due to cap constraints, they do have the option to move on from Simmons. Nevertheless, it’s anticipated that Denver will make every effort to retain their standout defensive player for the upcoming season and beyond.
