The Philadelphia Eagles may have a rare opportunity to add both elite production and proven leadership to their secondary. Following the offseason departure of C.J. Gardner-Johnson, general manager Howie Roseman still has a glaring need at safety—a role that could be perfectly filled by free agent Justin Simmons.
No NFL player has picked off Patrick Mahomes more than twice. Simmons has done it six times, more than any other defender. That staggering stat alone illustrates the veteran safety’s ability to disrupt even the league’s best quarterbacks, a trait that would be invaluable in Philadelphia’s pursuit of another Super Bowl run.
Simmons, who spent eight seasons with the Denver Broncos, brings an elite résumé to the table: 118 games played, 108 starts, 605 tackles, 30 interceptions, and 64 passes defensed. That experience could be a game-changer for a young Eagles safety room still recovering from last year’s struggles.
Philadelphia’s defense hit a low point in 2023, ranking 30th in both third-down and red-zone defense while allowing 25.2 points per game—the third-worst mark in the league. While Vic Fangio helped spark a dramatic turnaround in 2024, the secondary still lacks a true veteran anchor. That’s where Simmons fits in.
The addition of Simmons could be especially transformative for second-round draft pick Andrew Mukuba. The Clemson product was widely regarded as one of the most versatile safeties in the 2025 draft, but he’ll need guidance as he adjusts to Fangio’s complex, read-heavy scheme.
Four second-team All-Pro honors and two Pro Bowl selections speak to Simmons’ elite football IQ and consistency. Pairing that with Mukuba’s raw talent creates a mentorship dynamic that could fast-track the rookie’s development and help solidify Philadelphia’s backend for years to come.
NFL analyst Vinnie Iyer of The Sporting News made the case for Philadelphia as the ideal destination: “After losing C.J. Gardner-Johnson, this is the last real roster tweak the Eagles need for Vic Fangio’s defense. They can likely convince Simmons to sign with them given their Super Bowl status.”
Simmons’ value extends far beyond stats. His pre-snap communication, ability to diagnose route concepts, and knack for big plays would elevate the confidence and cohesion of a young secondary. For Mukuba in particular, the chance to study alongside a veteran of Simmons’ caliber could be career-shaping.
With Philadelphia’s championship window wide open and Fangio engineering a dominant defensive revival, adding Simmons could complete the puzzle. For a defense that’s already turned the corner, Simmons might be the finishing touch—and the mentor Mukuba needs to thrive.
