Justin Simmons announced his retirement from the NFL on April 29, 2026, concluding a career that spanned nine seasons with the Denver Broncos and one season with the Atlanta Falcons. While Simmons enjoyed individual success, including multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors, his tenure was marked by limited team achievements.
Before this announcement, expectations surrounding Simmons were largely positive; he had established himself as a key player for the Broncos after being selected in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. His consistent performance included not missing a game from 2018 to 2021, during which he played over 3,200 consecutive snaps.
However, recent developments shifted perceptions. The Broncos released Simmons in 2024 following a single winning season during his eight years with the team. He subsequently signed with the Falcons, where he played his final season.
Key statistics from Justin Simmons’ career:
- Simmons recorded a total of 32 career interceptions, with 30 made while playing for the Broncos.
- He finished his career with 666 tackles, 71 passes defended, and 5 forced fumbles across 134 games.
- Simmons earned two Pro Bowl selections and achieved second-team All-Pro honors on four occasions.
Simmons expressed a desire to be remembered not only for his accolades but also for his dedication to both the team and the city of Denver. He stated, “Being a Denver Bronco was more than just a team. It was my heart, my home and my story.” This sentiment reflects a deep connection to a franchise that shaped much of his professional identity.
The impact of Simmons’ retirement extends beyond personal accolades; it raises questions about the future direction of the Broncos’ defense as they seek to rebuild. The franchise will look to new leaders while reflecting on what Simmons brought to their culture.
