San Francisco, CA – June 17, 2025
The San Francisco 49ers might be one bold move away from turning a talented defense into an elite, championship-ready force. That move? Signing free-agent safety Justin Simmons — the former Denver Broncos All-Pro who is still shockingly available deep into the offseason.
While no deal has been finalized, buzz around Simmons and the 49ers continues to grow. And it’s not just because of his résumé. It’s because the fit — financially, schematically, and culturally — seems too perfect to ignore.
At 30 years old, Simmons remains one of the most instinctive and productive safeties in the NFL. He led the league in interceptions in 2022 and has recorded 30 career picks. Known for his football IQ, leadership, and ability to cover ground sideline-to-sideline, Simmons would be a dream for new defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who is returning to the Bay with a more aggressive defensive mindset.
“Justin Simmons is the smartest player I’ve ever coached,” one former Broncos assistant told Sports Illustrated. “He reads quarterbacks like a book, and he doesn’t miss when he gets there.”
The 49ers already boast playmakers like Talanoa Hufanga (returning from injury) and Ji’Ayir Brown, but questions remain about their health and depth. Adding Simmons would not only solidify the safety position but give the Niners a dependable veteran to mentor young talent and stabilize the back end of a secondary that faltered at times during their 2024 Super Bowl run.
Financially, the stars may be aligning. The 49ers have cap flexibility, especially after restructuring several veteran contracts. Simmons, now entering the value-seeking stage of his career, is reportedly willing to take a team-friendly deal if it means competing for a ring — something San Francisco is uniquely positioned to offer.
And don’t forget the culture factor. Simmons is known around the league as a locker room cornerstone — the kind of presence who elevates not just the defense but the entire team identity. For a 49ers squad still stung by a painful Super Bowl loss, that kind of leadership could be invaluable.
As rumors swirl and minicamp evaluations wrap, San Francisco must ask itself a simple question: are they ready to go all in? Because if they are, Justin Simmons might be the piece that finally brings home the sixth Lombardi.
Stay locked in as this story develops — the next big 49ers signing might just be an All-Pro savior.
