Atlanta Falcons: Top Free Agents to Target

Jan 14, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons middle linebacker Deion Jones (45) returns an interceptionduring the 4th quarter against the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Divisional playoff at Georgia Dome. Atlanta defeated Seattle 36-20. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 14, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons middle linebacker Deion Jones (45) returns an interceptionduring the 4th quarter against the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Divisional playoff at Georgia Dome. Atlanta defeated Seattle 36-20. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 6
Next
Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta Falcons /

4. Spend for an Edge Rusher

The Falcons may not have a lot of cap space but if they are going to spend big on one player now is the time to add a dynamic pass rusher. With names like Calais Campbell, Jason Pierre-Paul, Charles Johnson, and Chris Long set to possibly hit the open market now is the time to spend and bring in some help for Vic Beasley.

Beasley led the League in sacks and helped his whole defensive line get pressure but garnering extra attention and double teams in the Super Bowl and on regular occasion during the season. How much different could the Falcons defense have looked with another top edge rusher like Beasley?

Adding a top rusher doesn’t mean the Falcons still shouldn’t draft one rather that they should draft with the ease of knowing that if their picks are correct it will open up trading possibilities for other areas of weakness. If the Falcons decide against adding a top offensive lineman and bring in a sub-level replacement they should focus on adding a top rusher like Pierre-Paul or Campbell if they hit the open market.