Simmons remains one of the top free agents available as the preseason hits after being released by the Denver Broncos in a cost-cutting move this offseason. The two-time Pro Bowler is coming off a down year by his lofty standards, having missed a few more plays than usual in 2023, but remains a rangy safety who can wipe out the deep third and support every area.

In eight seasons with the Broncos, Simmons generated 30 interceptions — including leading the league with six in 2022 — 64 passes defensed, 4.5 sacks and 604 total tackles.

New Orleans has Tyrann Mathieu and 2023 fifth-round pick Jordan Howden as its current penciled-in starters. The club signed Will Harris as a backup this offseason and has former first-rounder Johnathan Abram for depth. Pairing Simmons and Mathieu could provide coach Dennis Allen with unique flexibility and range on the back end of his defense.

Saints defensive coordinator Joe Woods was Simmons’ defensive backs coach when the safety was drafted in 2016 and the Broncos DC the following two seasons. New Orleans’ current defensive backs coach, Marcus Robertson, was also on the staff in Denver as DBs coach in 2017-18, so there is extensive familiarity for both the team and the player entering the visit.

New Orleans enters a pivotal season under Allen. Luring one of the top remaining free agents at this late stage could help solidify the defense’s back end.