The NFL lost one of its most respected defensive backs this week as Justin Simmons officially announced his retirement at age 32. The former All-Pro safety, who spent eight seasons with the Denver Broncos and one with the Atlanta Falcons, signed a one-day contract Wednesday to end his career where it all began.
Simmons, a Boston College product, was drafted by the Broncos in 2016 and quickly became a cornerstone of their secondary. Over 134 career games, he amassed 666 tackles, 71 pass breakups, 32 interceptions, and five forced fumbles, earning two Pro Bowl selections and a reputation as one of the league's classiest players.
“I just want to be remembered as someone who gave his all and tried his best,” Simmons said in his farewell message. “I walk with a sense of purpose and understanding that everything happens for a reason.” He also expressed regret over not leading the Broncos back to the playoffs, saying he carries that weight as a former team captain.
The announcement sparked an outpouring of tributes from reporters, teammates, and fans. Vic Lombardi of AltitudeTV said, “Justin will always be a Bronco. He loves Denver. He lives here. He will stay here.” Zac Stevens of DNVR Broncos called him “a fantastic player and an even better person.” One fan summed up the sentiment: “I’m so happy he retires as a Bronco but man never got to taste team success in his career and I hate that for him.”
Simmons' journey included a brief stint with the Falcons in 2024, but his heart never left Denver. After his release from the Broncos, he told fans in a letter that he had no regrets. Now, he's looking forward to a new role: being a passionate fan. “I can’t wait to go to the home opener and be a fan,” Simmons told DenverBroncos.com. “I don’t want to go sit in a suite. I want to go sit as close as I can, maybe in the lower bowl, and cheer on the team. I want to go tailgate; I want to see the crazy Instagram people that have crazy fire trucks. I’ve never gotten to do that.”
As the Broncos prepare for the 2025 season, questions linger about their quarterback situation. With Bo Nix recovering from ankle surgery, the team has been linked to Aaron Rodgers in trade rumors. Meanwhile, Simmons' retirement adds to a somber offseason for the NFL, following the recent death of former defensive end Josh Mauro at 35. But for Simmons, this is a celebration of a career well-lived.
Simmons leaves the game with his head held high, having given everything to the sport and the city that embraced him. As he trades his helmet for a foam finger, Broncos Country will welcome him back with open arms.
