The Atlanta Falcons have had an influx of different emotions over the past week. First, they wereable to get a contract extension donewith Bijan Robinson, making him the highest-paid running back in the league. It was a deal that was going to get done sooner rather than later, and there's no doubt that he deserved every penny.
Later that day, the bad news rolled in as it was reported that Jalon Walker wascarted off the fieldafter an apparent injury during practice. The next day, it was confirmed that the second-year player had torn his ACL and would be out for the season.
It was devastating news for a team that had seen improvements in their defensive line last season, and Walker was one of the reasons for the turnaround. Now, it feels like the Falcons may be back at square one when it comes to finding a solid pass rush this season, especially if you take into account that James Pearce Jr.'s status is still pending, as the league could still suspend him.
As much as it feels like the world is already coming down for the Falcons, it's not the end of their season before it started. In fact, they're still in a good situation, and the defense shouldn't fall off much this season with Walker's absence.
It's time for the next man up mentality for the Falcons
Walker was a piece along the defensive line for the Falcons, but he isn't the end-all, be-all. Though Walker had a solid rookie season, he wasn't in the otherworldly category where teams put all of their attention on him, and it's uncertain if it would ever be that way. The good news is that the Falcons will have players to replace his productivity.
The Falcons added some players during the offseason in hopes of bolstering their pass rush and being ready for situations like injuries. Cameron Thomas and Azeez Ojulari are two players the Falcons brought in, and they've shown throughout their careers that they can get to the quarterback. Though their stats may not jump out, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will put them in a position to succeed.
Bralen Trice has missed the first two years of his career due to season-ending injuries, but he'scoming into this season healthyand ready to go. That's just another option the Falcons can deploy on the edge.
The Falcons can sign someone in the free agent market, or make a trade
Even if the Falcons aren't completely comfortable with the options they have on the team, there are players in the free agent market who are available. They could always bring back Leonard Floyd, who played for the team last season. Haason Reddick is still without a team and could find a nice role on the team.
A trade may be more difficult, and if anything, they may have to give up more than they're willing. It all depends on who they're targeting, and you never know who could be available for the right price.
This should make fans feel like the Falcons are fine, even if they lost a player like Walker for the season. They have several options at their disposal, and nothing is set in stone until the actual season starts.
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