Justin Simmons on Broncos, Free Agency & Life After Football | OTGS Ep. 31

Justin Simmons sits down with Tom Green for a wide-ranging conversation about his NFL career, life beyond football, and what the future may hold. Simmons reflects on his path from an under-recruited high school player to a key figure in Denver’s defense, sharing stories about being drafted by John Elway, learning under coaches like Wade Phillips, Vance Joseph, and Vic Fangio, and becoming a leader during a turbulent era for the Broncos. He discusses the frustration of not reaching the postseason, the business side of the NFL that led to his departure, and what his experience in Atlanta taught him about leadership and team dynamics. Simmons also talks candidly about sitting out a season, balancing family life, and the perspective he’s gained away from the game. The conversation closes with insight into his future — including his interest in playing again, coaching, and life after football — while reinforcing his lasting connection to Denver and Broncos Country. 00:00 – Intro: Stats, Mahomes & Justin Simmons 01:20 – Simmons reacts to intro & career reflections 02:14 – Playing safety & “the game within the game” 03:21 – Learning from Wade Phillips, Vance Joseph & Vic Fangio 04:42 – Secondary communication & defensive complexity 07:14 – High school path & Boston College opportunity 09:25 – When the NFL became realistic 11:08 – NFL Combine experience & draft stock 12:48 – Draft day story & John Elway call 16:26 – Rookie year & proving he belongs 19:15 – Broncos career, leadership & frustration 22:28 – Leaving Denver & salary cap reality 27:13 – Atlanta experience & locker room dynamics 30:03 – Sitting out & evaluating next move 32:46 – Missing football vs. gaining perspective 33:55 – Career reflection & playoff goals 35:17 – Broncos alumni & Denver connection 38:13 – Watching games as a player vs fan 39:15 – Community impact & giving back 41:04 – Family life, parenting & balance 45:03 – Coaching mentality & future with kids 47:47 – Post-football plans & podcasting 53:39 – Staying in Colorado & life after football 55:01 – Outro ‘OTGS’ is sponsored in part by RedBird Farms. Visit: redbirdfarms.com