Justin Simmons‘ season is over. The Broncos are placing the safety on the injured reserve list with an ankle injury (Twitter link via Mike Klis of 9News). 
Simmons injured himself while celebrating with teammate Brandon Marshall on Sunday. After Marshall sacked and stripped the ball from Josh McCown in the first quarter, Simmons gave him the linebacker a mid-air bump. Unfortunately, Simmons landed on Marshall’s foot and his ankle turned the wrong way.
It’s an early conclusion to what has been a breakout season for Simmons. Heading into this season, the second-year pro was slated to come off of the bench. However, the Broncos were so impressed by Simmons that they released former Pro Bowler T.J. Ward in order to give him more playing time.
Simmons started in all 13 of his games this year, compiling 63 tackles, two interceptions, a defensive touchdown, and 1.5 sacks. He graded out as Pro Football Focus’ No. 34 ranked safety, slotting him ahead of veterans like Bradley McDougald, Eric Weddle, and Tony Jefferson.
The Broncos, now 4-9 after drumming the Jets, will finish out the season against the Colts, Redskins, and Chiefs.