Renck: Former Broncos Safety Justin Simmons Shows Class After Release
Justin Simmons exemplifies what’s right in sports, displaying an uncommon grace after his release from the Denver Broncos.
Despite being cut, Simmons showed his gratitude.
Who does that?
“Him. When you think about what you want in a leader, Justin’s face should be right next to it,” said Broncos safety P.J. Locke. “My dad always told me that when you get to the top, bring the ladder up. That’s exactly what Justin does.”
In March, the Broncos initiated a significant rebuild, parting ways with key players including Lloyd Cushenberry, Josey Jewell, Russell Wilson, and Simmons. Despite his status as a Pro Bowl and All-Pro safety, as well as a community leader, Simmons received a heads-up call the night before his release. Coach Sean Payton deemed Simmons’ $18.25 million salary too high for a safety.
The NFL market supported Payton’s decision, but it felt wrong given Simmons’ contributions. Over eight years, he was the team’s standout player, akin to the modern-day Floyd Little, honored individually but never part of a playoff team.
In response to his release, Simmons visited the Broncos facility to say goodbye in person, expressing his gratitude to everyone from blue-collar workers to executives.
“There is so much that goes into playing well on Sunday. Even outside of practice. The nutritionist, the athletic trainer, those in the training room, the people upstairs in the front office who help with logistics, and so many others,” Simmons said. “I might not have said thank you every day I walked in, but I wanted to make sure that my last time roaming those halls as a player I said thank you and took time to let them all know that their work and words behind closed doors meant so much to me and played a big part in my success.”
Longtime Broncos employees couldn’t recall a player more gracious in his departure. While many might post a generic social media message, Simmons chose personal goodbyes.
Simmons learned from the exits of Von Miller, Demaryius Thomas, and Chris Harris that every player is vulnerable due to contracts, age, or coaching changes. Yet, he felt a personal farewell was essential, reflecting his upbringing and values.
“When I got here and learned what the Denver Broncos looked like and stood for under Pat Bowlen, I wanted to emulate what I saw from some of the vets that were under his tutelage when he was the owner,” Simmons said. “Those were some of the things that ran through my head and I made the conscious decision to do it.”
The purpose of this column is not to rehash a decision from three months ago. Selfishly, I wanted Simmons to stay because of his insightful and thoughtful answers during interviews. But I was also happy for his fresh start because he deserves to win. It still stings that it did not happen in Denver, where he played in 118 games, leaving him in the top 10 among active players without a postseason appearance.
“I have no regrets about my career in Denver. My biggest reflection, though, is that I didn’t see things through and I didn’t personally — and I know it’s a team game — get us back to the postseason,” Simmons, 30, said. “But I know that is something that will happen. There’s great players, great coaches, great leadership. That will happen sooner rather than later and when it does it will be a special feeling around here.”
Simmons remains unsigned as a free agent but has garnered significant interest. Potential teams include Atlanta, Miami, and Philadelphia.
“Honestly, I am looking for a team that is going to give me the best opportunity to play at the level I have been playing at, and on top of that, I am looking for a team that is a contender and is ready to win,” Simmons said. “I feel like I bring a lot to the table leadership-wise but also in my play. I think I can help whichever team it is reach their dreams and goals of winning a Super Bowl.”
Simmons embodies what is right about sports and life. He is a nice guy who deserves not to finish last anymore.
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