The Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles have been linked to a former All-Pro safety in free agency.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox lists Justin Simmons as one of the top free agents left on the market heading into training camp, and Knox dubs the Steelers and Eagles as logical landing spots for the veteran defensive back.
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“Pittsburgh is hoping to be a contender this year, but Simmons would be a sensible target for the Steelers. They traded away standout safety Minkah Fitzpatrick in the deal that brought Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh,” Knox wrote on the Steelers.
“Philly could be interested in adding Simmons after trading away C.J. Gardner-Johnson earlier in the offseason,” Knox wrote on the Eagles.
Simmons started 16 games for the Atlanta Falcons in 2024, snagging two interceptions and tallying 62 tackles. The two-time Pro Bowler also allowed a 64.7% completion rate and five touchdowns in coverage.
Though Simmons is no longer a high-level starting safety, the 31-year-old can still be a solid starter on a contender.
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Philadelphia boasts one of the best secondaries in football and added Andrew Mukuba in the second round of April’s draft to replace C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who they traded to the Houston Texans. However, if the Eagles want a more experienced player to start alongside Reid Blankenship in the backend, Simmons would be an excellent choice.
As for the Steelers, signing Simmons makes a ton of sense after trading away Minkah Fitzpatrick. Juan Thornhill is currently slated to be the starting safety next to DeShon Elliott, and though he is a viable starter, Simmons would definitely be an upgrade.
We’ll see where Simmons ends up landing, but it’s hard to believe the four-time second-team All-Pro selection is still on the market in July.
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