Justin Simmons Retires with Denver Broncos After 9 NFL Seasons

After 9 seasons and 2 Pro Bowl selections, Justin Simmons is retiring. This is his final act with the Denver Broncos.
By Newsroom | NFL, Denver |

Denver, CO – Justin Simmons, age 32, announced his departure from professional play today, Wednesday, April 29, 2026. The safety, having spent eight of his nine NFL seasons with the Denver Broncos, signed a ' one-day contract ' to formally end his career as a member of the organization. His time on the field, marked by individual distinction, included ' two Pro Bowl selections ' and ' four second-team All-Pro recognitions ', all earned while with Denver. Simmons amassed 32 interceptions over his nine years, registering at least one in each season, alongside 666 total tackles. He started 124 of 134 career games, demonstrating consistent presence, including a streak of 3,363 consecutive defensive snaps. However, Simmons never experienced a postseason game across his entire tenure.

His statement framed the move as a return, emphasizing "My heart, my home, my story," and "I'll always be a Denver Bronco," indicating a continued affiliation despite his playing career concluding with the ' Atlanta Falcons '. This final act contrasts with his initial departure from Denver, which did not occur on his own terms.

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Simmons retires as Bronco: 'My heart, my home' - 1

Beyond play, Simmons was recognized for community engagement. He received the ' Broncos' Community Ambassador award ' four times - working closely with the Broncos Boys & Girls Club - and was a ' three-time nominee for the Man of the Year award ', further establishing the ' Justin Simmons Foundation ' to expand his civic presence. He reportedly stated a desire to be remembered as a man who gave "his all to the team, the city."

Simmons was drafted exactly 10 years ago today, on ' April 29 '. Throughout his primary tenure in Denver, the team itself found limited success. After his release from Denver, Simmons played a season with the Falcons, though his sentiment remained directed towards his original team. The Atlanta Falcons acknowledged his retirement on social media platforms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Justin Simmons retire today, April 29, 2026?
Justin Simmons, after nine NFL seasons, announced his retirement today. He signed a one-day contract with the Denver Broncos to formally end his playing career with the team he spent most of his time with.
Q: What are Justin Simmons' career highlights with the Denver Broncos?
During his time with the Broncos, Simmons was selected to two Pro Bowls and earned four second-team All-Pro honors. He recorded 32 interceptions and 666 total tackles in 134 games played.
Q: Did Justin Simmons ever play in the NFL playoffs?
No, despite a consistent career with the Denver Broncos, Justin Simmons never played in a postseason game during his entire tenure.
Q: What did Justin Simmons do off the field?
Simmons was recognized for his community work, winning the Broncos' Community Ambassador award four times and being nominated three times for the Man of the Year award. He also established the Justin Simmons Foundation.