The NFL world was given surprising news on Wednesday that will impact the offseason. Teams were informed that the salary cap will increase by nearly 10% in 2025, giving organizations more money to spend than previously anticipated.
That helps the Atlanta Falcons in multiple ways, not only giving them an easier path to move on from beleaguered quarterback Kirk Cousins, but it also allows the front office more flexibility in pursuing trades or free agents.
For a team with limited cap space like the Falcons, any extra money helps to address the holes on the roster. Atlanta needs to devote resources to fixing one of the worst pass rushes in the sport.
Incredible
— Matt Williamson (@WilliamsonNFL) February 14, 2025
The #Falcons were 31st in sacks last season (31) and are last in the league over the last five years (141), 10 years (298) and 20 years (606).
Falcons Given Unexpected Salary Cap Space to Pursue EDGE
Atlanta ranked 31st in sacks last season, averaging just 1.8 per game. Dating back five, 10, and 20 years, the Falcons have been last in the NFL in sacks at every increment. They've spent high draft picks and money in free agency on the offense, which now has an exciting nucleus led by several promising players.
It's now time to fix the defensive front. Four of the top 16 free agents at Pro Football Focus are pass rushers: Khalil Mack, Josh Sweat, Haason Reddick, and Malcolm Koonce. Even if the Falcons don't offer one of these players, who could all still re-sign with their respective teams, early indications are that this is a promising class of EDGE players.
Grady Jarrett struggled in 2024 and there's limited depth behind him. The Philadelphia Eagles proved the importance of building in the trenches en route to a dominant Super Bowl victory. Therefore, if Atlanta doesn't want to suffer through another year watching the playoffs on the couch, they must take notice.
Someone like Reddick or Koonce could bolster the Falcons' pass rush. Reddick needs to rebuild his value after a contentious time with the New York Jets and Koonce is coming off an injury that cost him the season. Given the team's cap situation, the Falcons need to find value adds in all likelihood.
Nonetheless, the Falcons now have a better chance to make a move. That should excite fans as the offseason gets underway.