Justin Simmons isn't being shy about his desire to join a contender, and why not aim high?
On the Talkin' Ball with Pat Leonard show, Simmons expressed his desire to join either the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles or the Washington Commanders. Is this a bat sign for general manager Adam Peters to acquire the experienced safety?
Simmons liked the combination of the young playmakers combined with the veteran presence that the team has established. He paused before saying the team has a lot of very interesting things. While subtle, it did seem from his tonality that he was talking about the difference quarterback Jayden Daniels has made to the franchise.
"Also, Washington, high on the priority list. They are an extremely talented team. They have a good mix, in my opinion, of young raw talent that is being developed, but also, great veteran leadership…guys like Bobby Wagner, Zach Ertz, these guys that are on both sides of the ball, have seen a lot of good ball and know how to lead teams the right way."Justin Simmons
Simmons is ranked as the No. 76 best free agent in 2025 by NFL.com, and has multiple Pro Bowls under his belt. The Commanders did have a chance to get the safety last season after he was cut by the Denver Broncos, but he ultimately signed with the Atlanta Falcons on a one-year, $7.5 million contract.
Justin Simmons is an intriguing free-agent possibility for the Commanders
According to Pro Football Focus, Simmons' coverage grade over the past three seasons is top-15 among safeties. He has also never gone a year with under two interceptions.
Simmons is over 30 years old. He has not played a full season in the last three years. The defensive back also saw his statistics fall off during his time with the Falcons. The Commanders have helped veterans like Zach Ertz and Bobby Wagner rejuvenate their careers, so it's not silly to think they could do the same in this scenario.
Other safeties like Harrison Smith, Kevin Byard, Jimmie Ward, and Tyrann Mathieu are still performing at high levels despite being older than Simmons. If the money is right, the Commanders might explore the possibility despite picking up Will Harris.
Simmons was born in Manassas, Virginia, so he does have a local connection. He also played alongside Harris during their time at Boston College. That adds an extra sense of familiarity to the equation.
He was a senior while Harris was a freshman, but the duo did start three games together at free and strong safety, respectively. It's also worth remembering that the Eagles' defense was college football's best at the time.
Just like the battle that didn't come to fruition for Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, the Commanders' chances to bring in Simmons might come down to how badly the Eagles want him.
Simmons has familiarity with the Eagles coaches, having worked with defense coordinator Vic Fangio when he was Broncos head coach. Philadelphia's passing game coordinator/defensive backs coach Christian Parker also has a close relationship with the player.
But Dan Quinn has made an impression on Simmons as well. This is no surprise after the Commanders' head coach was ranked No. 1 across the league in the annual NFL Players' Association report.
With Harris and Quan Martin slated to be the starters, Simmons would be able to offer versatility. Not to sound like Drew Carey, but it will come down to if the price is right.
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