The Chicago Bears are trying hard to become a powerhouse in the NFL. They are rebuilding from scratch under general manager Ryan Poles, who inherited a mess from the regime before him. Part of their recent climb is the good play of their defense, which has made strides over the last two years.
Now, they have a chance to make more upgrades during a franchise-altering offseason. A lot of people are focused on what they are doing with their offense, and rightfully so. However, there should be plenty of attention on the defense this offseason.
There have been some big veteran salary cap casualties ahead of free agency, but the most surprising has been the Denver Broncos cutting ties with All-Pro safety Justin Simmons. They cleared up $14.5 million in salary cap space. Now, Simmons will be a hot commodity in what’s turning out to be a loaded safety group for free agency.
Broncos are releasing former All-Pro safety Justin Simmons after eight seasons in Denver, per league sources.
Moving on from Simmons, who went to the Pro Bowl last season, will save the Broncos $14.5 million against their salary cap. pic.twitter.com/AnBnuOVOlQ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 7, 2024
The former All-Pro safety would be a great addition for the Bears secondary, which is already pretty good at cornerback and with third-year safety Jaquan Brisker. Following Eddie Jackson’s release earlier this offseason, Chicago has a hole to fill at that free safety position.
Since making his NFL debut in 206, no player has had more interceptions than Simmons with 30. He has been truly one of the best. A player like that would do wonders for everyone around him. The secondary and linebackers are already good and they are going to improve the pass rush through the draft and free agency. Doing all of that plus adding a ball hawk like Simmons would be very wise.