During this off-season, the Green Bay Packers have been actively transitioning into a new phase. They’ve made bold moves by parting ways with Aaron Jones (29) and David Bakhtiari (32), and have acquired Josh Jacobs (26) and Xavier McKinney (24).

The infusion of youthful talent promises an exhilarating future for the team, yet General Manager Brian Gutekunst has expressed a willingness to consider seasoned veterans. Interestingly, there’s one experienced player who could significantly bolster the Packers’ defense.

Packers listed as potential fit for free-agent safety Justin Simmons

Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon has identified the Green Bay Packers as a potential landing spot for Simmons, one of the top remaining free agents. Despite the recent addition of Xavier McKinney, Kenyon suggests that the Packers could still be an attractive destination for Simmons if he doesn’t receive a lucrative offer elsewhere.

Pairing Simmons with McKinney in the starting lineup would represent a significant upgrade for the Packers, particularly in their secondary alongside standout Jaire Alexander. Simmons’ versatility allows him to excel as either a single-high safety or in the box, providing valuable support across the secondary.

The Packers have struggled to generate turnovers in recent years, recording only seven interceptions last season, the second-lowest total in the league. Simmons’ knack for creating turnovers could address this issue—he has consistently produced interceptions, tallying at least three interceptions in each of the past six seasons, including five in 2020, five in 2021, and six in 2022. In addition to interceptions, Simmons defended eight passes and recorded three interceptions last year alone.

With three consecutive second-team All-Pro selections and two Pro Bowl nods under his belt, Simmons brings a wealth of talent and accolades that could significantly benefit the Packers’ defense.

Bringing In Justin Simmons Would Be Huge For This Defense

Adding another dynamic playmaker to the safety position could completely transform the Green Bay Packers’ defense, much like their successful signings of Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith in the 2019 offseason.

With the departures of Darnell Savage to the Jaguars and Jonathan Owens to the Bears in free agency, the Packers may look to fill the void by targeting another safety either in free agency or in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.

Currently, aside from Xavier McKinney, the Packers’ roster includes only three other safeties: Zayne Anderson, Benny Sapp, and Anthony Johnson. Anderson and Sapp are expected to contribute primarily on special teams, while the Packers may not solely rely on Johnson’s development for their safety depth.

Despite the acquisition of McKinney, the Packers recognize the ongoing need for improvement at the safety position. Signing Simmons could provide a solution for the foreseeable future, offering stability and talent to bolster the Packers’ defense.