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Denver Broncos select S Justin Simmons in third round

By Sayre Bedinger

Oct 25, 2014; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Boston College Eagles defensive back Justin Simmons (27) reacts after intercepting a pass late in the fourth quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Boston College defeated Wake Forest 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 25, 2014; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Boston College Eagles defensive back Justin Simmons (27) reacts after intercepting a pass late in the fourth quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Boston College defeated Wake Forest 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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2016 NFL Draft: The Denver Broncos used the 98th selection in the draft on Boston College safety Justin Simmons to close out the third round…

The Denver Broncos closed out the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft by taking Boston College safety Justin Simmons.

Simmons is an incredibly athletic safety at 6-2, 200 pounds who will play some significant snaps as a rookie. NFL Network analyst and former defensive back Charles Davis said that he loved the Broncos’ pick. Here’s Simmons’ athleticism at a glance…

Simmons’ Combine performance was phenomenal, other than the fact that he didn’t run the fastest 40-yard dash. That won’t be a big deal. Here’s what NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein had to say about the Broncos’ new safety:

“Simmons has interceptions against Deshaun Watson, Jacoby Brissett and two against Notre Dame, and was one of the standouts at Shrine Game practices showing off his instincts and ball skills. Despite his thin frame, Simmons tackles with urgency and doesn’t lack toughness for the position. With range, length, cover skills and special teams ability Simmons should hear his name called on the third day of the draft and could become an eventual starter.”

He had five interceptions this past season along with a pair of forced fumbles. He is considered a leader in the locker room and offers positional versatility.

ESPN’s Louis Riddick lauded his ability as a sure-tackler. Mel Kiper Jr. said that it was ‘one of the best picks of the third round’ and that all Simmons does is ‘make plays’.

So, if you weren’t excited about this pick, there’s plenty of reason to be.

The Broncos needed to add a safety after losing David Bruton Jr., and this kid is going to be playing a key role this season. Not a bad way to close out the third round, and not a bad way for the Broncos to end day three. They have now selected Paxton Lynch, Adam Gotsis, and Justin Simmons.

This is shaping up to be an excellent draft for John Elway and company.

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