Falcons have a ton of free agent, draft options to fill biggest non-QB roster need

Everyone knows the Falcons’ biggest offseason need — a new quarterback.

For those of us who are here on earth, Desmond Ridder’s career is the team’s top priority right now, and both the general manager and owner of the organization are aware of this. However, there are many who think Zac Robinson and Raheem Morris can save his career.

Yes, Steve, we will not close any doors. That is, in fact, our main objective for the upcoming offseason, Terry Fontenot informed Steve Wyche. “We will not obstruct trades, free agency, or the draft in any way. We’ll make sure to approach it with an open mind and persevere until the issue is resolved.

“Everyone, including our fans, you all, and everyone else in the NFL, can clearly see that we need to figure out how we’re going to improve in 2024 and beyond, through trades, free agency, the draft, or whatever other means possible,” stated Arthur Blank.

But after the signal caller, I think the two positions that need to be filled this

offseason are wide receiver and edge rusher. I think the former is more

problematic because it appears like it’s harder to find a dominant pass rusher

than a dominant wide receiver in the NFL these days.

The Falcons have a ton of options to cover the vacuum, fortunately. The edge defender market is strong, with options ranging from free agents to draft prospects to trade targets.

Free Agents

Danielle Hunter, Josh Allen, Brian Burns, Bryce Huff, Chase Young, Jonathan Greenard, Jadeveon Clowney, Za’Darius Smith, Josh Uche, Leonard Floyd, Andrew Van Ginkel, Denico Autry, Carl Lawson, Derek Barnett, Marcus Davenport

I think this is one of the most loaded classes of free agents in my memory. Everybody can find their ideal ice cream taste. There is a free agent for every budget, whether you want to spend a fortune on a top pass rusher like Burns, Allen, or Hunter or bring in a veteran on a mercenary-type deal like Clowney and Smith.

There’s no reason the Falcons shouldn’t sign at least one of these players, even though they may not be allowed to sign some of these free agents due to franchise tag candidates.

Draft Prospects

Dallas Turner, Jared Verse, Laiatu Latu, Chris Braswell, Bralen Trice, Jonah Elliss, Chop Robinson, Adisa Issac

I would not be bothered if the Falcons decided to take this path. There is, once more, a flavor for everyone. Latu is technical, Turner is incredibly athletic, and Robinson is a raw material—a ball of clay that needs to be molded. Or how about Jonah, the sibling of Kaden Elliss? The first three picks may very well be in contention for the Falcons’ first-round selection.

Trade Targets

Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, Haason Reddick

All things considered, this is by far the greatest range of talent anticipated to be available in an offseason, even though the trade market isn’t nearly as active as the draft or free agency. If the Falcons don’t acquire one or two of these trade targets, draft picks, or free agents, they are being foolish.