During the 2024 offseason, the Denver Broncos overhauled much of their defense, particularly in the secondary. One notable departure was safety Justin Simmons, who will return to face his former team as a member of the Atlanta Falcons in Week 11. A third-round pick in 2016, Simmons spent eight seasons in Denver, earning two Pro Bowl selections during his tenure.
Simmons emphasized his primary goal: securing a victory over the team that originally drafted him.
“Going back to a place where I’ve spent my entire career, with so many great memories, it’s special,” Simmons shared on November 13. “The fans are incredible, and I have nothing but love for Broncos Country. That organization invested in me, extended me, and the community embraced my family. I’ll always be a Bronco at heart. But at the same time, our focus as a team is on getting our seventh win of the season before the bye.”
Reflecting on his departure, Simmons acknowledged the business nature of the NFL, citing examples of other Broncos greats like Von Miller and Demaryius Thomas who were also moved on from. He holds no resentment, saying, “No bad blood on my end. I’m grateful for my time there, but I’m fully focused on my role with the Falcons.”
Simmons is prepared for heightened emotions during his return to Empower Field, recognizing the challenge of playing against his former team in a tough environment. Despite the sentimental aspect, he’s leaning on his Falcons teammates for support.
“The energy will be different, no doubt. From running out of the away locker room to being on the opposing sideline, it’ll feel strange. But I’m ready for it,” Simmons said. “Thankfully, I’m not doing this alone. I have amazing teammates, and we’re focused on finding a way to win.”
Simmons also expressed his continued respect for former teammates like P.J. Locke and Pat Surtain II, as well as Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. He praised Joseph’s defensive leadership, noting the improvement in Denver’s defense in Year 2 under Joseph’s system.
As the Falcons prepare to face the Broncos, they carry momentum, having won three straight meetings against Denver and aiming to extend that streak while strengthening their playoff hopes. For Simmons, the game marks both a homecoming and an opportunity to solidify his place in his new team’s success.
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