Atlanta Falcons Should Sign Veteran Tight-End Greg Olsen

The Atlanta Falcons could have a surprising option at tight end this off-season. It was announced today that tight-end Greg Olsen and the Carolina Panthers have parted ways offering the Falcons an answer other than Austin Hooper.

Austin Hooper and the Atlanta Falcons haven’t come to an agreement as of yet. It seems likely the Falcons will opt to pay Calvin Ridley and Julio Jones and save money at the tight end position. Austin Hooper should take the highest offer, and the Atlanta Falcons shouldn’t be the one to give it to him.

While it might not be a popular decision with franchise quarterback Matt Ryan there is a move that would certainly make Ryan happy. The Falcons should sign veteran tight-end Greg Olsen.

Olsen and the Panthers have mutually parted ways and it seems likely Olsen will stay in the League. At thirty-four years old he won’t get anywhere close to the contract Austin Hooper will on the open market.

However, for the short term he is the better player and would give Matt Ryan a security blanket other than Julio Jones.

Olsen has struggled with injuries but his upside outweighs any injury concerns. It is seemingly the perfect signing for a win -now roster which the Falcons certainly are at this point.

Head Coach Dan Quinn may have bought himself another year but it seems unlikely anything short of making  the playoffs would save him next season.

Greg Olsen is a player who perfectly fits on the Falcon’s roster balancing out Calvin Ridley’s speed or the consistent double and triple coverage Julio Jones will receive. He would give Matt Ryan a sure handed receiver he can count on when he has to make a play.

It is certainly an interesting match if the Falcons allow Hooper to walk as many expect. Much more to come as the Falcon’s off-season gets underway.