Last week, Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons noted that he might hear some boos when he returned to Empower Field at Mile High in Week 11.
“You know, I won’t hear as many cheers — probably a little bit more boos — but, again, I think that’s part of it,” Simmons told media members in Atlanta last week.
Simmons didn’t appear to be specifically booed early in Sunday’s game, but he might have been had Denver Broncos fans heard what he said in the huddle before the game.
Before facing his former team, Simmons said, “In front of their home town, [expletive] them!” Here’s video of the moment, courtesy of Scotty Gange of 9News:
“In front of their home crowd, F-ck ‘Em!!”
Former Bronco Justin Simmons letting in rip in his old home. 😳😳 pic.twitter.com/0KTo0noXx1
— Scotty Gange (@Scotty_G6) November 17, 2024
Before that huddle, Simmons greeted former teammate Pat Surtain on the field before the game.
All love, @jsimms1119.
Bronco for life. 🫶 pic.twitter.com/nGdRXYVQ6v
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 17, 2024
The Broncos made a difficult decision to release Simmons this spring in a move that saved the club $14.5 million in salary cap space. He later joined the Falcons on a one-year deal.
Last week, Denver wide receiver Courtland Sutton joked that he hoped Simmons wouldn’t greet him with a big hit in Week 11.
“I jokingly told him, ‘Hey, bro, if you see me coming across the middle, just remember we’re friends,'” Suttons said.
Simmons is one of four ex-Broncos who now play for the Falcons. Simmons played in Denver from 2016-2023, earning four second-team All-Pro honors and two Pro Bowl nods. Simmons ranks seventh on the Broncos’ all-time list with 30 interceptions.
