A forgotten piece of the Atlanta Falcons' future is the question marks surrounding Tyler Allgeier. After an incredible rookie season, the franchise still opted to replace the starter with the impressive Bijan Robinson. While the move is understandable, it did cover up a great season from Allgeier that more than earned the right to a starting role. Now, the back is in the final year of his rookie deal and poised to hit free agency at the end of the 2025 season.
There is an argument to be made that now is the time for the Falcons to part ways with Allgeier. With a young roster that isn't expected to reach the heights of Super Bowl contention, moving on from Allgeier makes a level of sense. However, it can also be argued that the Falcons owe it to Michael Penix Jr. to give the quarterback one year of having all of last season's weapons to see what heights the quarterback can reach. Regardless, the Falcons are soon going to need to find an avenue to replace Allgeier.
Jase McClellan Has an Excellent Opportunity Due to the Falcons' Financial Situation
While watching the third back in OTAs or the preseason isn't typically a headliner, it is something Atlanta fans should be paying closer attention to. McClellan is coming off an extremely underwhelming rookie debut, averaging 2.5 yards per carry in extremely limited attempts. It will be the second year back, and Carlos Washington Jr. will be competing for the depth role.
Barring a surprise signing, one of these two options will be the depth behind Robinson and Allgeier. Not only this, but an opportunity lies in front of McClellan to carve out a long-term role. The math is simple when it comes to the current Atlanta backfield. The team cannot afford to let Robinson walk away, and this means you simply cannot pay Allgeier market value.
This sets up a chance for McClellan to begin making his case to claim the backup role. Having already had a year in the offensive system and familiarity in Atlanta, it would be ideal for the back to grow into this role. With how poorly the career has started, you're going to need a large sample size of the rusher taking a step forward to become next season's primary backup.
Starting in OTAs, McClellan needs to begin building a case to find a role in the Atlanta offense, proving he can be the change-of-pace back needed when Robinson needs a break in the 2026 season. It is a situation that demands a close eye not only in OTAs but throughout the summer and into the 2025 season.