Atlanta Falcons: Agree to Terms with Dontari Poe

The Atlanta Falcons made their biggest move of the off-season signing defensive lineman Dontari Poe.

The biggest weakness of the 2016 Falcons season was their inability to stop the run and the need to consistently sub in and out defensive lineman. They have addressed that problem bringing Dontari Poe to Atlanta.

The twenty-six year old spent the first few years of his career with the Chiefs and now will help anchor the Falcons young defense. What is most surprising about the deal is the fact that it is a one-year deal that reportedly is worth $8-million with incentives up to $2-million.

Giving Poe a prove it year deal was a great move by the Falcons and one that could set up their defense to be one of the best defensive units in the league.  Poe will join Grady Jarrett, Vic Beasley, Shelby, and Adrian Clayborn on a defensive line that now could be one of the better run stopping units in the league as well.

Poe is well known for not just his ability on defense but his offensive exploits including throwing the “bloated Tebow pass” earlier this past season.  He has passing and rushing touchdowns to his credit throughout his career.

He could be used in the league’s top offense as a decoy if they continue to employ the same strategy that led to their success last season. Using Poe in the backfield as a decoy at some point this season wouldn’t be surprising considering the Chief’s success using him on offense.

Poe’s primary responsibility will be helping plug up the middle of the defensive line and get a much needed push against opposing defenses. His run stopping ability is his biggest talent and will eat blockers as well allowing edge rushers like Vic Beasley to get to the quarterback more effectively.

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Adding Dontari Poe was a great move from a Falcons’ front office that has had a slow start to the off-season. Focus should now shift to the draft with limited cap space remaining.