The Buffalo Bills are off to a scorching 3-0 start in the 2025 NFL season, showcasing their dominance and setting their sights on a Super Bowl run. However, even with their early success, the Bills have been quietly working to address a critical need in their roster. In a move that has flown under the radar, the Bills have reportedly signed veteran safety Justin Simmons, a player Marissa Myers of TWSN predicted would be a perfect fit for Buffalo back in August. With a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 67.9 in 2023, Simmons brings a level of consistency and veteran leadership that could elevate the Bills’ defense to new heights.
While the Bills’ defense has performed admirably thus far, the safety position has been a point of concern. Cole Bishop, a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has been thrust into a starting role but has struggled to meet expectations. In 2024, Bishop posted a lackluster PFF grade of 49.6, and while he’s shown slight improvement in 2025 with a 56.8 grade, it’s clear he’s not yet ready to anchor a championship-caliber defense. Other options, such as Cam Lewis and Damar Hamlin, have also failed to solidify the position, leaving Buffalo vulnerable in the secondary.
Enter Justin Simmons, a proven veteran who brings both experience and reliability. As Myers noted in her August prediction, Simmons could not only step into the starting role but also serve as a mentor to Buffalo’s young safeties. His 2023 PFF grade of 67.9 demonstrates his ability to perform at a high level, and even though his 2024 grade dipped to 59.9, it still surpasses Bishop’s current performance. Simmons’ addition allows the Bills to remain patient with Bishop’s development while immediately upgrading their defense.
At this stage in his career, Simmons may not be the elite playmaker he was during his Pro Bowl seasons, but he remains a “performance machine” capable of making a significant impact. In 2024, Simmons recorded two interceptions, seven passes defended, and 62 tackles, proving he can still contribute effectively. His 2023 Pro Bowl campaign, where he earned a 67.9 PFF grade, highlights his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. For a Bills team with Super Bowl aspirations, Simmons represents a low-risk, high-reward acquisition.
The beauty of this signing lies in its balance. Simmons doesn’t need to be a superstar to make a difference; he simply needs to provide stability and leadership in the secondary. By pairing him with Buffalo’s talented defensive unit, the Bills can address their depth concerns while giving Josh Allen’s high-powered offense the defensive support it needs to compete against the NFL’s elite.
The Bills’ decision to sign Simmons aligns perfectly with their current roster construction and long-term goals. As Myers predicted, Simmons’ veteran presence allows Bishop to develop at a slower pace without sacrificing production in the starting lineup. His experience as a two-time Pro Bowler and his ability to read offenses make him an ideal fit for Sean McDermott’s defensive scheme. Furthermore, Simmons’ leadership qualities will be invaluable in the locker room, especially for a young secondary looking to take the next step.
The timing of this move is also critical. With the Bills sitting at 3-0 and looking like one of the AFC’s top contenders, adding a player of Simmons’ caliber could be the difference between another playoff disappointment and a deep postseason run. While Josh Allen continues to dazzle on offense, the defense must hold up its end of the bargain. Simmons’ ability to make plays in coverage and contribute in run support ensures that Buffalo’s defense remains versatile and unpredictable.
The Bills’ 3-0 start has fans dreaming of a Super Bowl, but as history has shown, small roster adjustments can make or break a championship run. The signing of Justin Simmons may not grab headlines like a blockbuster trade, but it’s the kind of under-the-radar move that championship teams make. By addressing a clear need at safety, Buffalo is positioning itself to compete with the likes of Kansas City and Baltimore in the AFC.
Simmons’ addition is a reminder that even the best teams can’t afford to get complacent. With a PFF grade of 67.9 in 2023 and a track record of consistent production, Simmons is far from a washed-up veteran. Instead, he’s a “performance machine” who brings stability, experience, and leadership to a Bills team on the cusp of greatness.
As the 2025 season progresses, keep an eye on how Simmons impacts Buffalo’s defense. If he can replicate his 2023 form and help elevate the play of those around him, the Bills may finally get over the hump and bring a Super Bowl trophy to Western New York. For now, this secret weapon is no longer a secret—and the rest of the NFL should take notice.