Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons is set to return to Empower Field at Mile High this weekend to face the Denver Broncos, his old team.
Simmons, 30, was released by the Broncos this spring in a move that saved the team $14.5 million in salary cap space. Denver coach Sean Payton was asked about the decision to cut Simmons after Wednesday’s practice.
“That was difficult, I mean, holy cow,” Payton said. “I remember him coming out in the draft. I remember — look, I was just with him a season, but it’s always difficult when you’re dealing — especially with a veteran — someone who’s played so well for the organization. Those are never easy decisions.”
Simmons will reunite with many former teammates on Sunday, including cornerback Pat Surtain. Simmons is still in a defensive back group chat that includes Surtain, Ja’Quan McMillian and P.J. Locke.
“It’s going to be a lot different, obviously, my past few years here, he’s been on our side of the ball,” Surtain said Wednesday. “So it’s going to be very much different, but I’m excited for the reunion for sure. I know [there’s] a lot of anticipation leading up to it.
“I’m looking forward to it, I know he’s excited, we’re excited. We’re still connected in the group chat, so [there’s] going to be a lot of trash talk going into it. It’s going to be pretty cool.”
Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on Fox (view the TV map). Playing at home, the Broncos are considered slight favorites in Week 11.
