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Justin Simmons franchise tag first step to (hopefully) long-term deal with the Broncos

On top of the Broncos safety, here’s to George Paton getting Shelby Harris back on a new deal as well.

Good morning, Broncos Country!

Justin Simmons will remain a member of the Denver Broncos.

For now.

The hope is George Paton and the franchise are able to get him signed to a multi-year deal that keeps him in Denver for the long haul.

While the move to tag the Broncos safety was expected, it is a peace of mind to know he’s not going anywhere.

But better yet was what Paton said when the tag was announced.

As he said in a statement on the Broncos’ website:

“Designating Justin with the franchise tag is a procedural move that allows us to continue working on a long-term deal. We are completely focused on making sure Justin remains a big part of the Denver Broncos for many years to come.”

Simmons is the kind of player you do whatever it takes to keep.

If you let players like him go, what does that tell his teammates and players around the league? Simmons is one of the best safeties in the NFL, but also does so much for the community. He’s what I’ve pegged a “Pat Bowlen Bronco.”

The fact this wasn’t done a long time ago is surprising, but it looks like they’re on the path to a deal. When, and if, it happens, it won’t matter it took longer than anyone would have liked. Simmons will remain in Denver for a long time.

Hopefully next up is Shelby Harris.

Broncos Blast

Each Saturday, I do a segment on Denver radio station ESPN 1600 AM. This week, I was the guest co-host and MHR’s Joe Rowles joined us. Joe laid out the positions to address in free agency and the players Paton should target.

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