The Philadelphia Eagles have experienced significant roster turnover this offseason, with multiple players departing in free agency. Additionally, they traded a key defensive piece from their Super Bowl run—C.J. Gardner-Johnson—to the Houston Texans in exchange for offensive lineman Kenyon Green. Gardner-Johnson’s departure leaves a void in the secondary that the Eagles will need to address.
To fill that gap, Philadelphia has several options in free agency. Replacing Gardner-Johnson’s impact won’t be easy, as he recorded 59 tackles, six interceptions, a forced fumble, a defensive touchdown, and 12 passes defended in 2024.
One potential replacement has recently been linked to the Eagles. Nick Brinkerhoff of USA Today predicts that Philadelphia could land Atlanta Falcons free-agent safety Justin Simmons. He believes Simmons would be an ideal fit to take over Gardner-Johnson’s role.
“The Eagles may now be in the market for a safety after trading C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Simmons appears to be a perfect match,” Brinkerhoff wrote.
“Having already played under Vic Fangio, Simmons possesses the skill set to seamlessly transition into the Eagles’ defense. Moreover, he should come at a reasonable cost and wouldn’t prevent Philadelphia from selecting a safety in the draft.”
Simmons had a strong 2024 campaign with the Falcons, appearing in 16 games and recording 62 tackles, two interceptions, and seven passes defended.
Despite being 31 years old, he remains a high-level performer and could help maintain the Eagles’ defensive strength. Spotrac projects his market value at $5.8 million per year, a price that makes him an even more appealing option for Philadelphia.
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