Commanders Emerge as a Top Landing Spot for $61 Million Defender
…Could the Commanders land All-Pro safety Justin Simmons to complete their defensive overhaul and make a serious Super Bowl run in 2025? With the team aggressively improving their roster, Simmons could be the final piece of the puzzle…
Commanders Justin Simmons NFL Free Agency
Commanders Emerge as a Top Landing Spot for $61 Million Defender Justin Simmons: Could a Super Bowl Run Be Next?
The NFL offseason is heating up, and few teams are making waves quite like the Washington Commanders. As they undergo a dramatic overhaul under new leadership, one name now stands out as a potential crown jewel of their defensive transformation—All-Pro safety Justin Simmons. With the $61 million veteran still available on the free-agent market, multiple league sources suggest the Commanders have emerged as a top landing spot.
And if they manage to seal the deal? Washington could be poised to make their most serious Super Bowl push in over three decades.
A Franchise in Transformation
Since Josh Harris and his ownership group took control of the Commanders, there’s been a seismic shift in culture, personnel, and ambition. Washington has already made bold moves on both sides of the ball this offseason—signing quarterback Marcus Mariota as a veteran backup, adding playmakers like Austin Ekeler, and investing heavily in the trenches.
But it’s the defensive unit that’s undergoing the most profound rebuild. New head coach Dan Quinn, a defensive specialist who helped shape the infamous “Legion of Boom” in Seattle and later led the Cowboys’ defense into dominance, has made it clear: this team will be defined by toughness, discipline, and versatility.
Why Justin Simmons Fits Perfectly
Justin Simmons, released by the Denver Broncos in a surprise cap-saving move earlier this offseason, is exactly the type of player that can tie a rising defense together. At 30, Simmons is still playing at an elite level, having recorded 3 interceptions, 8 pass deflections, and 70 tackles in 2023. A two-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, Simmons is widely regarded as one of the most cerebral and consistent safeties in the NFL.
What makes Simmons even more appealing for Washington is his football IQ and leadership. A locker room favorite in Denver, Simmons was known for commanding respect, studying film with the meticulousness of a coach, and elevating the play of those around him.
Quinn has always relied on veteran leadership to anchor his defenses—think Kam Chancellor, Richard Sherman, or more recently, Jayron Kearse and Malik Hooker in Dallas. Simmons could be that figure in Washington.
The Current Safety Situation
The Commanders currently boast a young safety group led by Percy Butler and Darrick Forrest, both of whom have shown flashes of promise but lack consistency and experience. Adding Simmons would not only provide elite production but also serve as a developmental boon for the young secondary.
With recent additions like linebacker Frankie Luvu and cornerback Michael Davis, and edge rusher Dorance Armstrong arriving from Dallas, the Commanders are clearly building a defense in Dan Quinn’s image. Simmons would be the missing puzzle piece—his range, ball skills, and communication could instantly elevate the group into top-tier territory.
Cap Space and Contract Possibility
Washington has the cap space to make this move work. With over $35 million in cap room remaining and minimal long-term commitments at the safety position, signing Simmons would not hamstring future flexibility. In fact, the Commanders could likely secure him with a two-year deal in the range of $18–22 million, front-loaded to protect against future decline.
Given Simmons’ recent visit schedule and the lack of reports tying him to long-term offers, Washington may have the upper hand. They can offer a starting role, a competitive salary, and a chance to compete for a playoff run under a defensive-minded coach who knows exactly how to use a player like him.
Super Bowl Contenders?
Adding Simmons alone doesn’t guarantee a Lombardi Trophy, but it makes the Commanders a lot more dangerous. The NFC East remains a gauntlet with the Eagles and Cowboys still loaded, but the Commanders’ trajectory is clear. With a rising offense headlined by rookie QB Jayden Daniels and veteran skill players like Terry McLaurin and Brian Robinson Jr., Washington’s foundation is solid.
But defense wins championships—and with Simmons on board, the Commanders’ defense could leap into the top-10 range, especially if Quinn can unlock the potential of recent draft picks like Emmanuel Forbes and Jamin Davis.
Final Thoughts
In a league where difference-makers on defense are few and far between, Justin Simmons stands out as a proven leader who still has plenty left in the tank. The Washington Commanders have the need, the cap space, and the momentum to make it happen.
If Simmons signs on the dotted line in D.C., don’t be surprised if the Commanders go from a rebuilding team to a legitimate playoff—and even Super Bowl—contender in 2025.
The pieces are coming together. Justin Simmons might just be the one that completes the picture.
