Falcons should be considered suitors for top free agent edge defenders

This offseason, the Falcons will need to make changes to the edge unit. In my

opinion, it’s the third most important need, after receiver and quarterback.

Although Lorenzo Carter, DeAngelo Malone, and Arnold Ebiketie are under

contract, Terry Fontenot must find it appealing to add a proven player via the free agent market.

 

Atlanta’s general manager is expected to have about $40 million in cap space;

however, if the Falcons cut Taylor Heinicke, Jonnu Smith, Mike Hughes, and

Carter, that amount would increase by about $20 million.

 

Although it doesn’t make much sense to cut a player in need, the goal is to

improve the current squad, so Carter’s departure in order to bring in a more capable player should be discussed.

 

Given how strong and talented the free agency market is, it ought to be an option.

Atlanta was not once listed in the “potential landing spots” analysis that

PFF recently conducted for the incoming class. The Falcons ought to and most

likely will be considered for all of the best players.

 

Although Josh Allen and Brian Burns are contenders for the franchise tag, if they were to sign, they would provide the

Falcons with a reliable edge pass rusher. There is interest in Burns; the Falcons

have already made inquiries. Danielle Hunter is standing directly beside them.

However, there are less expensive options. A player who is somewhat

obscure yet extremely productive is Bryce Huff. One could discuss Jonathan Greenard in the same sentence. Both

would significantly strengthen the Falcons defense.

 

Additionally, Chase Young will test out free agency. Although the former No. 2

overall choice hasn’t reached his full potential, Terry Fontenot may cherish

that very quality. Za’Darius Smith and Jadeveon Clowney, two one-year

mercenaries, ought to be considered as well.

 

Josh Uche comes from a New England system where he was expected to fill a

multitude of positions and won’t break the bank. That would be interesting for

the Falcons, who recently hired Jimmy Lake as their defensive coordinator.

The next level of edge defenders, such as Dorance Armstrong, Denico Autry,

Andrew Van Ginkel, Derek Barnett, Carl Lawson, Marcus Davenport, Anfernee

Jennings, and others, are not even included in that.

 

As I mentioned before, the Falcons will undoubtedly sign at least one of the many talented free agents available.