Justin Simmons announced his retirement from the NFL on April 29, 2026, after a decade with the Denver Broncos. His career featured significant individual accolades but faced challenges in achieving team success.
Simmons was drafted by the Broncos in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft, just after the team celebrated its Super Bowl 50 victory. Over nine seasons, he became a cornerstone of the defense.
Career Highlights:
- Simmons recorded 32 career interceptions, with 30 made while playing for the Broncos.
- He earned two Pro Bowl selections and four second-team All-Pro honors.
- Throughout his time with Denver, he did not miss a game from 2018 to 2021, playing over 3,200 consecutive snaps.
Despite these achievements, Simmons’ tenure was marked by only one winning season. He expressed a deep connection to the city and team—”Being a Denver Bronco was more than just a team. It was my heart, my home and my story,” he stated.
In his final season, Simmons played for the Atlanta Falcons after being released by the Broncos. He finished his career with impressive statistics: 666 tackles, 71 passes defended, and five forced fumbles across 134 games.
Simmons also made significant contributions off the field through initiatives like the Justin Simmons Foundation, highlighting his commitment to community service. He was nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award three times and won the Darrent Williams Good Guy Award three times.
Reflecting on his journey, he said, “There were a lot of positive things that happened individually, but I really hold and carry a lot of that weight as a team leader.” His desire to be remembered as someone who gave everything to both his team and city resonates deeply.
The next chapter for Simmons remains uncertain; however, his impact on both players and fans will undoubtedly be felt long after his departure from professional football.
