The Pittsburgh Steelers already have a couple of fine safeties, but could they pursue another before the Oct. 31 NFL trade deadline? Conor Orr of Sports Illustrated would like to see them make a play for Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons.
Orr thinks that adding Simmons into the mix would provide the Steelers with lethal defensive versatility and would allow them to make up for their shaky offense in a potential playoff run.
Orr suggests that Pittsburgh should trade a 2024 third-round draft pick to the Broncos in exchange for Simmons.
Denver is just 2-5 and is headed nowhere fast. For that reason, many are expecting the Broncos to sell off some pieces before the deadline, and Simmons could be one of those pieces.
Simmons has another year left on his deal after the season and is slated to earn $14.5 million in base salary in 2024, so Denver surely wouldn’t mind getting out from under his contract in order to free up some more money for its inevitable rebuild that may kick off this offseason.
Simmons, who played his collegiate football at Boston College, was selected by the Broncos in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
The 29-year-old has enjoyed a thoroughly productive career in the Mile High City, making one Pro Bowl and earning three Second-Team All-Pro selections during his time with the club.
Last season, Justin Simmons led the NFL with six interceptions and added 69 tackles, three forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and seven passes defended.
In five games this year, the Manassas, Va. native has logged 28 tackles and a pick.
The Steelers are 4-2 thus far in 2023 and have been one of the league’s most pleasant surprises. They will take on the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday.
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