More Than Just Turning Down the Chiefs? Justin Simmons’ Cryptic Statement Sparks Speculation of a Vic Fangio Reunion in Philadelphia

On April 8, 2025, free-agent safety Justin Simmons dropped a bombshell during an appearance on Up & Adams with Kay Adams. When asked about the possibility of joining the reigning AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs, Simmons didn’t mince words: “I want to beat them, not join them.” This cryptic statement has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, igniting speculation about his next move. Could Simmons be hinting at a quiet reunion with Vic Fangio, now the defensive coordinator of the Philadelphia Eagles? If so, this move could reshape the NFC landscape in 2025. Let’s unpack the layers behind Simmons’ words and explore what this might mean for the Eagles and the broader NFL.

Justin Simmons’ Cryptic Statement: A Rejection of Kansas City?

At first glance, Simmons’ comment seems like a straightforward jab at the Chiefs, a team that has dominated the AFC West—his former division with the Denver Broncos—for years. Since entering the league in 2016 as a third-round pick, Simmons has faced Kansas City 18 times, compiling a 5-13 record against them. Despite his personal success—32 career interceptions, including several against Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes—the Broncos never managed to dethrone Kansas City during his tenure. His statement, “I want to beat them, not join them,” reflects a competitive fire and perhaps a lingering frustration from those divisional battles.

However, Simmons didn’t completely shut the door on Kansas City, adding, “I’m not that incompetent to think if Kansas City wanted me to come through, I wouldn’t.” This nuance suggests his comment is less about outright rejection and more about a desire to prove himself against the NFL’s gold standard. At 31, Simmons remains one of the league’s top safeties, with a 2024 season in Atlanta yielding 62 tackles, 7 pass breakups, and 2 interceptions. A player of his caliber isn’t just looking for a paycheck—he’s chasing a legacy, and beating the Chiefs could be a defining chapter.

The Vic Fangio Connection: A Reunion in Philadelphia?

While Simmons’ words about the Chiefs grabbed headlines, his comments about Philadelphia have fueled even more intrigue. During the same interview, he spoke glowingly about the Eagles and their defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio, with whom he worked from 2019 to 2021 in Denver. “Going to Philly with Vic, you know exactly what you’re getting out of me, and I know exactly what I’m getting out of them because I’ve been in the system,” Simmons said. This familiarity could be the key to unlocking his next move.

Under Fangio’s tutelage, Simmons thrived, earning two Pro Bowl nods and racking up 14 interceptions over three seasons. Fangio’s complex defensive scheme, which emphasizes disguise and versatility, perfectly suits Simmons’ high football IQ and ball-hawking skills. Now, with Fangio leading the Eagles’ defense to a Super Bowl LIX title in 2024, Philadelphia looks like an ideal landing spot. The Eagles traded safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the Houston Texans in March 2025, leaving a void next to Reed Blankenship in the secondary. Simmons, with his proven track record and prior connection to Fangio, could seamlessly fill that gap.

Philadelphia Eagles 2025: A New-Look Defense in the Making

The Eagles’ defense was a powerhouse in 2024, helping secure their second Super Bowl title in franchise history. Fangio’s arrival transformed a unit that had struggled in 2023, blending veterans like Darius Slay with young stars like Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. However, the offseason brought changes, with Gardner-Johnson’s departure and potential free-agency losses like Milton Williams and Josh Sweat. Adding Simmons could elevate an already elite defense to new heights, reshaping the NFC landscape.

Imagine a secondary featuring Simmons and Blankenship at safety, with Slay, Mitchell, and DeJean locking down the corners. Simmons’ range and playmaking ability would complement Fangio’s system, allowing the Eagles to deploy aggressive coverages and stifle opposing passing attacks. Offensively, Philadelphia remains stacked with Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, and an elite offensive line. Pair that with a reloaded defense, and the Eagles could cement themselves as NFC favorites in 2025, challenging teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions.

Beyond the Chiefs: What Simmons’ Statement Really Means

Simmons’ cryptic statement isn’t just about turning down Kansas City—it’s a declaration of intent. After nine years without a playoff appearance, including a lackluster 2024 stint with the Atlanta Falcons (23rd in scoring defense), Simmons is hungry for a contender. His reluctance to “join” the Chiefs suggests he’d rather be the one to topple their dynasty than ride their coattails. A reunion with Fangio in Philadelphia offers that chance. The Eagles, fresh off a championship, are poised to compete at the highest level, and Simmons could be the missing piece to sustain their dominance.

Moreover, Simmons’ familiarity with Fangio and defensive backs coach Christian Parker (another ex-Broncos colleague) reduces the learning curve. “There are nuances that I know Vic likes, that I know Christian Parker likes, and I think I could really help in that area,” he noted. This isn’t just about comfort—it’s about maximizing impact. At this stage of his career, Simmons wants a system where he can hit the ground running, not spend a training camp adapting to something new.

The NFC Landscape: How Simmons Could Shift the Balance

If Simmons lands in Philadelphia, the ripple effects could be seismic. The NFC is already a battleground, with the 49ers boasting a loaded roster, the Lions emerging as perennial contenders, and the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers lurking as wild cards. A Simmons-led Eagles secondary could tilt the balance, giving Philadelphia an edge in crucial matchups. Picture a late-season showdown with San Francisco, where Simmons’ interception seals a victory, or a playoff rematch with Detroit, where his leadership neutralizes Jared Goff’s passing game.

The Chiefs, meanwhile, remain the AFC’s benchmark. Simmons joining the Eagles wouldn’t just be a personal quest to “beat them”—it could set up a Super Bowl LX clash where he gets that chance on the biggest stage. For Eagles GM Howie Roseman, known for bold moves, signing Simmons aligns with his philosophy of stacking talent to sustain success. At a potentially discounted rate after a quieter 2024, Simmons represents a high-reward opportunity.

Conclusion: A Quiet Reunion With Big Implications

Justin Simmons’ cryptic statement—“I want to beat them, not join them”—is more than a soundbite. It’s a window into his mindset as he navigates free agency in 2025. While the Chiefs remain a possibility, the tea leaves point to Philadelphia, where a reunion with Vic Fangio could redefine the Eagles’ defense and the NFC landscape. At 31, Simmons isn’t chasing a paycheck—he’s chasing a ring, and Philly offers the perfect stage. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on whether this cryptic hint becomes reality, potentially setting the NFL ablaze in 2025.