While the Atlanta Falcons' offensive issues go far deeper than a simple signing, it is clear the franchise must make an effort to bring in veteran depth. Fixing the offense will be reliant on offensive coordinator Zac Robinson looking in the mirror and being willing to see his own faults and adjust accordingly. Still, the Falcons need to make an effort to improve depth at the receiver position after parting ways with Ray-Ray McCloud. Atlanta doesn't need a star target with Drake London filling this role, but rather a reliable depth piece.
Making a potential signing of former Georgia Bulldog and Super Bowl champion, Mecole Hardman, is the perfect move. You're replacing Ray-Ray McCloud with a veteran who is far more accomplished and has proven to deliver in the biggest moments. This included catching a game-winner in the Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs. Hardman also has experience in the return game, offering a level of flexibility to a team that badly needs a boost. This shouldn't be in the form of a top target or blockbuster move, but instead to improve incredibly questionable depth.
Falcons Shouldn't Hesitate to Sign Veteran Free Agent Mecole Hardman
Since McCloud's release, the franchise has turned to Casey Washington and David Sills as possible answers. Neither player has been consistent, with the bulk of the receiving game falling on London's shoulders. Hardman can ease this at least a bit, giving the Falcons a speedy fourth option behind Kyle Pitts, London, and Darnell Mooney. Even if the veteran isn't able to fulfill this role, you have a better chance of finding production in big moments than you do with the final receivers currently rostered.
Atlanta's lack of urgency at the position has been infuriating to watch and harmful to the development of Michael Penix Jr., who has yet to start a full season. Atlanta's focus must shift to bringing in needed depth and providing Penix with secondary outlets when a capable defense has focused all its attention on London and Bijan Robinson.
Signing Hardman is a step in this direction and would be a great boost to the spirits of a fan base that is bracing for another season of misery. It seems the franchise continually finds ways to give just a bit of hope, only to collapse in the most unexpected ways. Having a front office that is aggressive enough to address these issues and attempt to improve should be the only outlook for a group of decision-makers whose seats are growing increasingly warm.