2017 Season In Review: Denver Broncos Secondary
By Cody Roark
![OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Aqib Talib #21 of the Denver Broncos walks off the field after being ejected for fighting with Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images) OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Aqib Talib #21 of the Denver Broncos walks off the field after being ejected for fighting with Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fpredominantlyorange-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2017-2F11-2F879748244-denver-broncos-vs-oakland-raiders-jpg-850x560-758bdb1583990b3fa4c2e9ec091f198673e377a1d981e6f242939b9886ebddae.jpg)
Justin Simmons, Safety
Justin Simmons was arguably the Broncos most improved defensive player in 2017. Simmons rose to the occasion and embraced a starting role after the Broncos released veteran TJ Ward in the off-season.
I call him the Broncos utility man because he can do it all. He can cover tight ends and receivers while also plugging the run.
Justin. Simmons.
— Mile High Saluter (@milehighsalutes) November 13, 2017
Announcing his presence with authority. pic.twitter.com/uEKWt2UwAq
As noted above, his lane integrity as he fills on a stretch play against the New England Patriots was satisfying. On the other hand, his growth in defending the pass has impressed many eyes in Broncos Country.
NO FLY ZONE.@jsimms1119's INT seals the W for the @Broncos! #OAKvsDEN #BroncosCountry https://t.co/m37efaDVgL
— NFL (@NFL) October 1, 2017
Next: Will the Broncos try to get Nate Solder in 2018?
Not to mention, Simmons is only 24 years old and will step into an important leadership role next season for the Broncos. Simmons was without a doubt the most impressive young athlete for Denver in 2017.
Grade: A
What are your thoughts, Broncos Country?