Bengals predicted to add former $61 million Pro Bowler to aid poor defense

We're getting closer and closer to the 2025 NFL season as free agency and the draft are now behind us. 

Entering this offseason, the Cincinnati Bengals needed to get better on defense. The offense was good enough to make the playoffs in 2024, but the defense frequently allowed big plays and gave up leads. 

The unit finished 25th in the league in both yards allowed and points allowed per game. Thus, prior defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo was fired and Al Golden was brought in from Notre Dame. 

In free agency, though, the Bengals didn't make any huge upgrades on defense. T.J. Slaton was brought in and should be a solid starter on the defensive line, but the pass rush and secondary still need a ton of help. 

Fortunately for the Bengals, there's still a few free agents who are available to help. Liam Rebellato of LWOS identified veteran safety Justin Simmons as a logical fit for the Bengals. 

Regarding a potential Bengals-Simmons pairing, Rebellato offered the following: 

The Cincinnati Bengals also stand out. They locked up their star receivers on offense, and their secondary is filled with young talent, but lacks a seasoned leader. Adding free agent Justin Simmons, who has the ability to play multiple roles, would provide versatility and balance.

Simmons is among the best safeties remaining on the market after playing with the Atlanta Falcons in 2024. 

The veteran is likely still unsigned due to having a down year by his standards in 2024. Simmons ended the season with 62 tackles, two tackles for loss, and seven pass deflections. 

Pro Football Focus gave Simmons a 59.9 overall grade in 2024. While that's not an impressive grade overall, Simmons graded out slightly better in pass coverage and his prior performances have been much better. 

Before latching on with the Falcons last offseason, Simmons spent the first eight years of his career with the Denver Broncos. During that time, Simmons earned a reputation as one of the better safeties in the league and provided value in pass coverage and as a run defender. 

Simmons' best season came in 2022 when he collected 69 tackles, two tackles for loss, seven pass deflections, and a league-leading six interceptions.

Overall, the defender has had at least 80 tackles in four different seasons and has been selected to three Pro Bowls. 

In Cincinnati, Simmons could immediately slot in at free safety. The Bengals have 2024 addition Geno Stone at that spot, but Stone struggled mightily last season and could be replaceable. Adding Simmons would give the Bengals another solid veteran to utilize in the secondary.

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