The Atlanta Falcons have added another Pro Bowl safety to their defense, officially signing Justin Simmons to the roster on Sunday afternoon. In a corresponding move, the team released wide receiver James Washington.

The 30-year-old made the Pro Bowl for the second time in his career last season but was released by the cap-strapped Broncos in March. Simmons, who has 30 career interceptions, joins fellow Pro Bowl safety Jessie Bates III in Atlanta's secondary this season.

The addition of Simmons likely ends Richie Grant's time as a starter in Atlanta. Grant can serve as the team's third safety which will help mitigate the temporary loss of DeMarcco Hellams. Simmons and Bates (50 combined career interceptions) should form one of the NFL's top safety duos this season.

The Falcons gave Simmons a one-year, $8 million contract with a base pay of $7.5 million. Over The Cap showed the team with close to $7 million prior to cutting Washington and adding Simmons, so Atlanta had just enough cap space to make it work.

Pro Bowl guard Chris Lindstrom helped facilitate the deal by restructuring his contract to free up over $10 million. The Falcons traded for Patriots edge Matthew Judon on Wednesday before agreeing to terms with Simmons on Thursday evening.

Both playmakers have played some of their best football in recent years. If the goal is to win now, the team is making the right moves by adding proven veterans at positions of need.

More Latest Falcons News!

Falcons Twitter debates decision to sit rookie QB Michael Penix Jr.

Falcons EDGE Matthew Judon assigned new uniform number

Studs and Duds from Falcons' preseason loss to the Ravens

Falcons vs. Ravens: Best photos from Saturday's preseason game

Falcons to sit rookie QB Michael Penix for rest of preseason

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons sign safety Justin Simmons, release veteran WR