Chargers vs Broncos: Five players to watch for on Monday Night

DEN: SS Justin Simmons

Justin Simmons is in as the starting strong safety for the Denver Broncos after the team released three-time Pro Bowl safety TJ Ward. Ward started 31 games for the Broncos from 2014 to 2016, recording 181 tackles, five sacks and three interceptions in that span. Ward is now a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Now, the starting duties will be relayed to Simmons, who started three games for Denver last season. Overall, Simmons played in 13 games for the Broncos in his rookie campaign last year, registering 20 tackles with one sack and two interceptions. This was the passing of the torch from Ward to the 2016 third round draft pick.

Simmons seemingly possesses more of a ball hawk mentality, whereas Ward was a physical presence in the secondary. Although Ward held his own, Simmons may pose a much bigger threat down the field to force a turnover. Both of Simmons interceptions last week came in week 16 and 17, respectively.

It will be interesting to see how Simmons performs against the strong passing offense of the Chargers. Denver has both Aqib Talib and Chris Harris to worry about at corner, perhaps limiting the chances for Simmons to really make a play. However, Philip Rivers has so many weapons at his disposal and Simmons will be key in limiting those weapons.