Full Breakdown
Justin Simmons Retires as a Denver Bronco After Nine-Year NFL Career
4/30/2026, 11:32:01 PM
The Final Play: Retirement Announcement
On April 29, 2026, former safety Justin Simmons announced his retirement, signing a one-day contract to retire as a Denver Bronco. He had sat out the 2025 season after a 2024 stint with the Atlanta Falcons.
A Decade in Denver: Draft, Development, and Departure
Drafted in the third round (98th overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft from Boston College, Simmons started eight seasons (2016-2023) with Denver, earning a regular starting role early. The Broncos released him in March 2024 for salary-cap reasons; he then signed with Atlanta, started all 16 games in 2024 and recorded two interceptions. He did not play in 2025 before retiring in 2026.
Career Metrics and Community Impact
In 134 games (124 starts) Simmons logged 32 interceptions, 666 tackles, 71 passes defended, five forced fumbles and 4.5 sacks. He earned four second-team All-Pro honors, two Pro Bowl selections (2020, 2023), three Walter Payton Man of the Year nominations and served as a three-time captain. Off the field he led Broncos Boys & Girls Club initiatives, the Justin Simmons Foundation and partnered with Children’s Hospital Colorado; his 2022 airport welcome message reached over 100,000 daily passengers.
Official Statements & Responses
The Broncos’ X post highlighted Simmons’ retirement quote and noted the ten-year draft anniversary. The team confirmed his one-day contract and cited his four All-Pro honors, two Pro Bowls, three captaincies and community service. Atlanta posted a tribute recognizing his 2024 contributions. In a Broncos interview Simmons said he intends to attend future games as a fan.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Denver literally shaped me into the man that I am. To the best fans in the world and Broncos Country, thank you so much for all your support for both myself and my family,” — Justin Simmons, former safety, Denver Broncos
- “Being a Denver Bronco was more than just a team. It was my heart, my home and my story.” — Justin Simmons, former safety, Denver Broncos
- “I’ll always be a Denver Bronco,” — Justin Simmons, former safety, Denver Broncos
- “And this is not a goodbye. I look forward to joining you guys in the stands as we cheer on our team for years and years and years to come,” — Justin Simmons, former safety, Denver Broncos
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources list different totals: tackles are given as 666 or 604; passes defended as 71 or 64; interceptions as 32 career or 30 as a Bronco. Details on post-retirement plans beyond attending games are limited.
What Lies Ahead
Simmons intends to attend the Broncos’ home opener, sit near the field and tailgate, while continuing charitable work through his foundation. No coaching or front-office role has been announced.
