Pass rusher Leonard Floyd was the biggest Atlanta Falcons free agency addition, with the veteran wasting no time making an impression. There are already ties to the state with Floyd playing his college years with the Georgia Bulldogs. Close to Atlanta's stadium, the school has strong ties to the franchise and made the veteran a popular addition. This was setting up Atlanta's big draft day decisions of bringing in another Georgia product in Jalon Walker. Atlanta wouldn't stop there, trading back into the first round to add another pass rusher in James Pearce Jr.
The Falcons signing Floyd to a one-year $10 million deal wasn't just about the expected veteran production. It was bringing in a stable option not only to help the new rookie duo but also young pass rushers Arnold Ebiketie and Bralen Trice as well. Atlanta understands the value of not just having strong coaching but veteran leaders at each position with experience for young players to lean on. This is reflected at nearly every position across the team's roster.
Leonard Floyd is Already Impressing the Falcons
Floyd isn't wasting any time making an impression not only with his ability to help Atlanta's young pieces but his own ability as well. Watching Floyd in the offseason serves as a reminder of just how starved Atlanta's roster has been for a capable pass rusher. Whether it is missing in the draft or failing veterans, the franchise hasn't had someone with this level of established production in a surprising amount of time.
While the $10 million could be looked at as a bit hefty for Floyd's numbers, the deal is already worth every penny. The Falcons understand the value of having a veteran to lean on as well as the team's own desperation. Free agents aren't lining up to come rush the passer for one of the league's worst units.
This is why the team invested heavily in the draft and opted to pay Floyd top dollar. It showed a surprising understanding from the Falcons' front office that this is what it will take to spark meaningful change and give the team a chance to turn the corner. No question, signing the veteran was a great move and is already paying off early in the offseason.