Pro Bowl Justin Simmons left the New Orleans Saints practice facility without a new contract last week. He’s currently on his way to Atlanta to visit the Falcons before this week of preseason games.
Could the Houston Texans be next on the list of places to visit before suiting up in 2024? One publication believes it should happen since it would benefit all parties.
Bleacher Report’s scouting department recently broke down every weak point of the Texans following the first week of preseason games and offered insight on how to improve over the next 12 months. For the immediate fix, they believe Simmons should join forces with DeMeco Ryans’ defense after being the star of Denver’s secondary for eight seasons.
“The Texans just might realize they aren’t a fan of where their safety depth is when they take a final look over their roster before the season. Jalen Pitre is a good tone-setter for them in the secondary and Jimmie Ward brings a lot of experience, but he might be needed in the slot and the Texans have rookie Calen Bullock and Eric Murray behind them. Justin Simmons is one of the best free agents remaining. The Texans have about $17.8 million in cap room to make something happen.”
If the Texans are all-in for 2024, Simmons should be on a short list of free agents worth targeting. He’s a two-time second-team All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler who’s led the league in interceptions over his tenure.
But Houston likes its safety room headed into the new year. Bullock, a third-round pick out of USC, has shown flashes of starting potential after forcing a fumble in the Hall of Fame game. Murray also has experience playing both safety roles and could start in a pinch to begin the year.
My early Calen Bullock take:
1) He's not a complete player right now but his niche is useful to Houston.
2) That role is "We don't think you can beat him over the top before our pass rush gets home" – Not unfair!
3) He's a better tackler than I expected thus far.#HTownMade pic.twitter.com/KEcH4dp56H
— John Crumpler (@JohnHCrumpler) August 12, 2024
Also, while B/R lists Ward as a potential nickel option, it’s Pitre who’s actually playing closer to the line of scrimmage. Does that change the trajectory of adding Simmons as the starting free safety?
Would Ward move over to the strong side permanently?
Simmons would be a welcomed addition to a revamped defense mixed with veterans and rising talents. He’d pair well with Azeez Al-Shaair, Danielle Hunter, Will Anderson Jr, Christian Harris, Derek Stingley Jr. Pitre and Kamari Lassiter.
He’s also not necessary to add after two preseason games. The Texans can leave an open door policy if Simmons remains unsigned following his visit to Atlanta, but the reigning AFC South champions shouldn’t pay top dollar for a player who doesn’t fit a primary need.