Broncos safety Justin Simmons was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week after his performance in the 24-9 win over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Simmons recorded an interception, two tackles, a pass breakup and a fumble recovery in Denver’s best defensive performance of the season. His interception on Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the fourth quarter was the fifth time he has picked off the 2-time MVP and Super Bowl champion.
He has 29 career interceptions—tied for the most by any NFL player since the start of the 2016 season.
This is the first time Simmons has been named AFC Defensive Player of the Week in his eight-year career. He joins teammate Kareem Jackson (2019) and former Bronco T.J. Ward, John Lynch, Steve Atwater and Steve Foley as the only safeties in team history to receive the honor.
Simmons was named Special Teams Player of the Week as a rookie.
Former defensive end Dre’Mont Jones was the last Denver player to win AFC Defensive Player of the Week. He did so in Week 8 of last season when he recorded seven tackles (three for loss) and a sack in a win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Broncos nominate Gradishar for Salute to Service Award
The Broncos announced Tuesday that former linebacker and Pro Football Hall of Fame Senior Finalist Randy Gradishar has been selected as the team’s nominee for the 2023 Salute to Service Award presented by USAA.
Gradishar has participated in three United Service Organization tours, visiting military troops in Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. He is an active supporter of team military outreach and has hosted service members at practices and visited local Colorado bases.
The Salute to Service Award is part of the NFL and USAA’s year-round commitment to recognize and honor the military community.
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