Exclusive; Bills Named Best Fit to Add Veteran Safety With ‘Outstanding’ Production

This offseason, the Buffalo Bills experienced a significant shift in their secondary as they bid farewell to Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer, who had been fixtures on the team for years and served as valuable leaders both during games and behind the scenes.

Despite drafting Utah safety Cole Bishop in the second round to compensate for their losses, the Bills may need additional veteran support. Analyst Marcus Mosher from The 33rd Team proposed that two-time Pro Bowl safety Justin Simmons – who became a free agent after being let go by Denver Broncos earlier this offseason- would be an excellent addition and suit well with Buffalo’s team.

According to Mosher, although the Bills have high hopes for Bishop, it may be too demanding to expect him to serve as a Day 1 starter on a Super Bowl-level team. Instead, he would likely function better in the role of a third safety player at least during his initial season.

Justin Simmons, who was let go by the Denver Broncos at the start of this offseason season, is undoubtedly the leading safety in terms of safety measures. Since 2016 he has demonstrated exceptional ball-hawking skills with an astounding tally of 30 interceptions and remains a remarkable athlete to date.

The Bills view Justin Simmons as a significant improvement.

According to Mosher, Simmons has the potential to give a quick boost to the Bills secondary which recently underwent significant changes. Additionally, he could act as a temporary solution that enables Bishop’s integration at a measured pace.

Mosher suggested that although he will turn 31 in the 2024 season and may not be as dynamic as earlier in his career, Simmons would still offer a significant upgrade for the Bills. With an inexperienced safety room lacking leadership, his presence would bring much-needed guidance. Despite not being a permanent solution, signing Simmons could serve as an excellent short-term option until Bishop is ready to step up into the role.

Simmons had a remarkable season, receiving the honor of both Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro. He recorded 70 total tackles along with three interceptions and eight pass defenses. Additionally, he has been exceptionally resilient as he played in at least 15 games throughout six out of his seven recent seasons while participating in no less than twelve games within all eight NFL seasons.

The possible profit that Micah Hyde could secure.

The Bills may turn to a familiar figure for experienced guidance in their secondary. During his charity softball event held in Buffalo last May, Hyde revealed to journalists that he is weighing just two possibilities for the next chapter of his professional journey.

According to Sal Capaccio from WGR 550, the All-Pro safety stated on May 16 that he either wants to play for Bills or retire.

Once Hyde decides on retirement, the Bills are willing to consider his return according to general manager Brandon Beane.

According to ESPN’s Alaina Getzenberg, Bills GM Brandon Beane stated that Micah Hyde has not definitively ruled out playing and the team would consider bringing him back if he decides to return. Beane also clarified that he is unsure of Hyde’s current decision regarding his future in football.

Mike Edwards was brought in during the free agency period to provide veteran assistance at safety for The Bills.