The Denver Broncos made a bold move by replacing fan-favorite safety Justin Simmons with one of the NFL’s top defenders this season, Brandon Jones.
When Simmons was cut in March to create salary cap space, many fans were upset, as he had been a standout player on an otherwise struggling team for nearly a decade. The signing of Jones was met with skepticism, with many fans asking, “Who?”
The elite defenders this season 😤 pic.twitter.com/obKlczuThX
— PFF (@PFF) October 2, 2024
However, Jones has quickly proven his worth in Vance Joseph’s defense, recording 24 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and two passes defended in just four games. His efforts earned him a spot at No. 10 on Pro Football Focus’s list of the top-10 defenders in the entire NFL, regardless of position—a prestigious group that includes stars like Fred Warner, Aidan Hutchinson, T.J. Watt, Nick Bosa, and Myles Garrett.
Additionally, defensive lineman Zach Allen ranks second in the league in pressures, trailing only Hutchinson. With these performances, the Broncos’ defense is allowing just 256.5 yards per game, tied for second-best in the league with the Jets, and just behind the Titans.
While this doesn’t diminish Simmons’ value, it seems the decision to part ways was mutually beneficial. Head coach Sean Payton and GM George Paton made a solid call in bringing Jones on board.
