Recently Released All-Pro's Ejiro Evero Ties Could Bring Him to Carolina
The 30-year-old free safety played under Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero in 2022.
By Jovan Alford
The Carolina Panthers likely won’t be in the free-agent market for safeties this offseason, as they already have Xavier Woods and Von Bell under contract for next season.
However, with the amount of talent on the open market at safety, the Panthers could be tempted to take a chance to upgrade the position. One safety in particular that could be of interest to the Panthers is Justin Simmons.
Simmons was shockingly released on Thursday by the Denver Broncos after spending eight seasons in the Mile High City.
Mike Kaye of the Charlotte Observer pointed out that the 30-year-old free safety played for Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero in 2022 with the Broncos. However, Kaye adds that Woods and Bell played well last season in Carolina.
Xavier Woods and Vonn Bell would open up savings if either were released, but I'd argue they were a main reason the #Panthers back end played so well last season.
— Mike Kaye (@mike_e_kaye) March 7, 2024
Simmons played for Evero in 2022. https://t.co/vb3lexZICd
When Simmons played under Evero in 2022, he produced 69 combined tackles, seven pass deflections, six interceptions (career-high), three forced fumbles, and two tackles for loss.
This past season with the Broncos, Simmons had 70 combined tackles, eight pass deflections, three interceptions, two tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and a sack. He also produced a 66.7 completion percentage allowed on targets, an 89.1 pass rating allowed when targeted, and gave up three receiving touchdowns.
That being said, the 30-year-old free safety will have plenty of suitors, not named the Carolina Panthers.
While it would be cool to see Simmons playing for Evero again, the Panthers are in a great spot at the safety position. They are better off using their cap space to add to their wide receiver unit and defensive and offensive lines.
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