The Atlanta Falcons have certainly made a lot of noise this offseason. It started by signing veteran QB Kirk Cousins and drafting rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Now, the Falcons figured it was time to get some big pieces to strengthen their defense. After trading for Matthew Judon from the New England Patriots, Atlanta was not done. In fact, the Falcons were already closing in on their next target. Read on to find out who the Falcons acquired now.
Atlanta Falcons Signing S Justin Simmons
According to Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team, Justin Simmons is officially signing with the Atlanta Falcons. This confirms the report linked above from Vincent Pensabene of Gridiron Heroics that a deal between Simmons and the Falcons was being finalized this morning.
So, what does this contract look like? Well, one big thing to remember is that Simmons is not young, since this is his ninth year in the NFL. As a result, he is signing a 1-year deal with the Falcons worth $8 million.
Last year, Simmons had three interceptions, a fumble recovery, a sack, and 70 combined tackles. After spending eight years with the Denver Broncos, he will now start the next chapter of his career with the Atlanta Falcons.
Joining Matthew Judon
As mentioned above, Justin Simmons is not the only big defensive acquisition made in the last 24 hours by the Falcons. Shortly before this, the Falcons traded for LB Matthew Judon from the New England Patriots. Considering the Falcons only had to give up a third-round pick and take on his $6.5 million salary this season. It is the final year of Judon’s contract, and the Falcons acquired him due to the Patriots and Judon not being able to reach an agreement for a contract extension.
Atlanta Falcons Moving Forward
It is safe to say that there is pressure for the Atlanta Falcons to win the NFC South at minimum due to all of these big acquisitions. They even took a player from their division rival, the New Orleans Saints, because Simmons visited New Orleans shortly before signing with Atlanta. Considering the division was won with a 9-8 record last year and the Falcons finished 7-10 with a quarterback who no longer starts in the league, an NFC South title should be more attainable than ever.
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