Buccaneers Divisional Rival Adds Another Big Name

Fresh on the heels of the news that Buccaneers division rivals the Atlanta Falcons have traded for Mathew Judon the Falcons added Justin Simmons as well. Now we have looked at the number for Judon so much in a similar fashion we will dive into the Simmons signing. Should the Buccaneers be worried? Let’s find out.

Simmons has been a steady presence for the Denver Broncos for quite some time. His production has been solid including last year where he had three interceptions, eight pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and 70 combined tackles. Furthermore, he held opposing quarterbacks to a 66.7% completion percentage. A very solid showing for the season and one indicative of the previous seasons. Additionally, Simons played 100% of the defensive snaps last season. ALL 985 of them.

Now from a replacement factor, this is not all that exceptional. Richie Grant started last year for the Falcons and provided close numbers. He notched one interception, six pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and 103 combined tackles. Numbers are just as good as Simmons even when you throw in the 68.4% completion percentage allowed. Grant played 943 snaps last season. The comparison is comparable.

Age is a big factor here. Though safety can typically play longer than cornerback the Falcons run the risk of that cliff coming sooner rather than later. So is this year going to be on par with Simmons’ previous or is Father Time hiding around the corner? Given how savvy he is I doubt a fall off coming. After all, we are talking about one of the most consistent defensive backs in the league.

I don’t believe the addition of Just Simmons makes this team better. Quite frankly it did make the safety position deeper but outside of that the Falcons just pushed Grant back in the depth chart and will likely stifle some of his growth. In my opinion, the Falcons should have let Grant start again. He’s young, unlike Simmons who may have father time nipping at his heels. So should the Buccaneers worry about the addition to the Falcons’ defense? At this point, they shouldn’t have to worry too much more than they did before Simons was on the roster. But…. when I look at the possibility of their defensive line being very stout I like to couple the defensive backfield with a multiplier. Meaning more pressure by the defensive front equates to more impact plays by the secondary. So, as for now, I’m not worried about his addition.