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Denver Broncos: Justin Simmons and Will Parks Impressing

By Cameron Parker

DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 01: Justin Simmons #31 of the Denver Broncos celebrates making an interception late in the fourth quarter against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 01: Justin Simmons #31 of the Denver Broncos celebrates making an interception late in the fourth quarter against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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The future at safety looks bright with Denver Broncos’ Justin Simmons and Will Parks impressing first-year head coach Vance Joseph.

Both Denver Broncos safeties Justin Simmons and Will Parks made their presence felt last season on a blocked field goal against the New Orleans Saints. Simmons reacted and Parks had the breakaway speed to score the points the other direction on the extra point. It goes beyond one play to define Simmons and Parks’ role on the team.

Simmons is the starter at safety filling the void left from TJ Ward and giving special teams a boost. Meanwhile, Parks is playing in the dime package and contributing regularly as a stellar performer on special teams also. Simmons and Parks are impressing Vance Joseph.

“He’s been solid, Justin. He’s been good on defense and teams. I’ve been very pleased with Justin’s performance. Will is playing dime for us at a high level. I’ve been pleased with him. Both of those young guys have had good years so far, in my opinion,” Joseph said of the two safeties.

The athletic ability of Simmons is very hard to ignore. The measurables calculated at the NFL Combine are translating to the football field. During the Oakland Raiders game, Simmons out-jumped Amari Cooper, a possession receiver, to intercept the last pass thrown by EJ Manuel in the game.

Parks is the heir to the Darian Stewart throne it appears and is doing plenty good in coverage. Parks’ lack of discipline at times gets him beat in coverage. He will get better with time. However, the growing pains are certainly there. Yet, the future remains bright for Parks.

Next: Broncos Three Round Mid-Season Mock Draft

Jamal Carter is another hybrid player to not ignore. While it is a difficult time to watch for the fanbase, we should take pride in knowing there is plenty of future on this roster. Carter plays like Deone Bucannon. His coverage is underrated, but the versatility to play linebacker creates more opportunities. The Broncos could be forced to look at Carter more.

However, Simmons and Parks are impressing the coaching staff with their play.

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