The Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off a blockbuster trade on Monday, sending safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Dolphins. In return, they received defensive back Jalen Ramsey, tight end Jonnu Smith and a 2027 seventh-round pick.
While this deal adds star power at cornerback and brings in another weapon on offense, it leaves a major hole at the safety position. That’s exactly why Pittsburgh should sign veteran free agent Justin Simmons right away.
Steelers Should Sign Safety Justin Simmons After Blockbuster Trade
With Fitzpatrick gone, the Steelers will lean on DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill at safety. Both are capable players, but neither offers Fitzpatrick’s elite playmaking ability or range.
Justin Simmons is still one of the league’s top ballhawks and would immediately lift the Steelers secondary. Pittsburgh’s elite pass rush, led by T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Alex Highsmith, forces quarterbacks into mistakes and bad throws.
Having a true ballhawk free safety like Simmons behind that front would maximize those turnover chances even more. At 31, Simmons should still have plenty left in the tank.
Pittsburgh could likely sign him on a one-year deal at a reasonable price. The Steelers are going all in this year, especially after signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Simmons has the experience and instincts to thrive in a defense built on forcing turnovers and making big plays.
Simmons is a Two-Time Pro Bowler with Proven Production
Simmons is a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the NFL’s most respected veteran safeties. Last season in Atlanta, he proved he can still produce, recording two interceptions, 36 solo tackles and seven passes defensed in 16 games. His combination of leadership and ball skills would instantly help stabilize a Steelers secondary that now features Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr. but lacks an elite free safety.