West Atlanta News

Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons, who spent eight years with the Denver Broncos before joining the Falcons, recently returned to Denver. His visit was marked by signing a wall of signatures at Empower Field at Mile High, where he inked his name below that of his former teammate Demaryius Thomas.

Alongside Simmons, Falcons head coach Raheem Morris, quarterback Kirk Cousins, and left tackle Jake Matthews also signed the wall. For Matthews, it was a moment to connect with family history as he signed below his father Bruce Matthews' signature.

Despite the sentimental start to the day, the game ended poorly for the Falcons. They were defeated by the Broncos 38-6. Simmons reflected on his mixed emotions after the game: "It was emotional," he said. "Obviously I played the last eight years here — a lot of good memories – so it was bittersweet."

The Broncos achieved 400 yards of offense against Atlanta's defense. Quarterback Bo Nix completed 28 of 33 passes for 307 yards and four touchdowns—his best performance of the season so far.

Simmons acknowledged Nix's progress: "The progression from Bo... has gotten tremendously better each and every week." Despite efforts to limit deep plays, Atlanta struggled with screen plays executed by Denver under head coach Sean Payton.

Falcons inside linebacker Kaden Elliss remarked on Payton's play-calling skills: "You know screens are coming... He makes it look different every time."

The Falcons allowed 199 yards after catch during this game—the most they have conceded in a single match this season.

Coach Raheem Morris highlighted tackling as an area needing improvement: "Obviously bad tackling... We got to go out there and tackle better."

With Week 12 being their bye week, the Falcons will use this time to regroup before facing off against the Los Angeles Chargers on December 1st. They remain two games ahead in the NFC South playoff race but must contend with Sunday's loss during their break.

Reflecting on both positive moments and challenges faced during his return home trip, Simmons expressed gratitude mixed with disappointment: "I am super grateful," he stated. "I'm also standing up here with a heavy heart of a really tough loss."