However, there’s one standout free agent on the market who could easily bolster the team’s most critical area heading into training camp.
As he awaits his next move in free agency, Pro Bowl safety Justin Simmons is precisely the missing piece the Colts need to address any concerns in their secondary.
Following his second Pro Bowl selection in 2023, Simmons finds himself available not due to any decline in performance. Rather, the Denver Broncos needed to make cap space this offseason, leading to Simmons’ departure.
Since the beginning of the 2020 season, no player in the league has intercepted more passes than Simmons (19), regardless of position. Among NFL safeties, his 36 passes defensed during this period rank second only to Jessie Bates III (38).
At 30 years old, Simmons may not be in his prime, but he continues to perform at an elite level as a deep defender.
The Colts face uncertainties both in the present and future of their safety positions. They recently re-signed Julian Blackmon to a one-year deal as their strong safety, though injuries have prevented him from completing a full season despite showing promise as a key contributor.
At free safety, there’s a competition brewing between third-year players Nick Cross and Rodney Thomas II. Cross currently holds the edge for the starting role, yet he’s still striving to prove his consistency over a full season.
Bringing Simmons aboard would provide an immediate top-tier option in Gus Bradley’s defensive scheme while affording Cross and Thomas opportunities to further develop their skills as valuable depth pieces.
Financially, the Colts are in a secure position with approximately $25.9 million in cap space heading into training camp, leaving ample room to accommodate Simmons’ potential contract.
While the Colts may trust in their youthful secondary talent, Simmons could represent the ideal addition to elevate their defense to new heights in the upcoming 2024 season.