The Atlanta Falcons are not playing around this offseason. Just a day after pulling off a blockbuster trade for four-time Pro Bowler Matthew Judon, the team is doubling down on defense, signing elite veteran safety Justin Simmons to a one-year, $8 million deal, with a staggering $7.5 million guaranteed. This aggressive move signals that the Falcons are laser-focused on building a championship-caliber defense.
Simmons, who quickly integrated into the Falcons’ inner circle with a dinner alongside defensive stalwarts Grady Jarrett and A.J. Terrell, is expected to make an immediate impact. After DeMarcco Hellams went down with an injury in the preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins, Atlanta urgently needed reinforcements in the secondary. By pairing Simmons with star safety Jessie Bates III, the Falcons could now boast one of the most formidable safety tandems in the league.
This defensive overhaul comes on the heels of significant offensive upgrades, with the Falcons having already secured the services of quarterback Kirk Cousins, wide receiver Darnell Mooney, and dynamic playmaker Rondale Moore. They also drafted quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, ensuring their offensive future is in good hands. But with the offense looking loaded, questions remained about whether the defense could hold its own.
Despite a solid showing last year, the Falcons’ defense faced challenges heading into this season. The loss of key players and the devastating ACL injury to third-round pick Bralen Trice in the preseason left the pass rush in dire need of reinforcements. Enter Matthew Judon, who Atlanta acquired for a third-round pick. Judon, who racked up a career-high 15.5 sacks in 2022, brings a proven track record and the kind of ferocity the Falcons desperately needed on the edge.
With Judon wreaking havoc up front and Simmons patrolling the secondary, the Falcons’ defense is poised to become a nightmare for opposing offenses. Combined with their high-powered offense, Atlanta is positioning itself as a serious contender in the NFC, capable of making a deep playoff run.
The message from Atlanta is clear: they’re not content with just competing—they’re gunning for the top spot. And with these high-impact additions, the Falcons might just be the team to beat in 2024.
Photo from Justin Simmons Instagram
