Best available free agents that Falcons could target

The Falcons have needs on the defensive side of the ball; however, with only around $4 million in cap space, Terry Fontenot will have to restructure some contracts to create some cap space. It shouldn’t be too hard to create enough to acquire any free agent on this list.

Calais Campbell, DL

The 37-year-old might retire, but if he doesn’t, the Falcons have to be at the front of the line for his services. He racked up 6.5 sacks, 17 knockdowns, and 10 tackles for loss for Atlanta last year, which was a very productive campaign at a $7 million price tag. Campbell is capable of playing up and down the line of scrimmage, and the Falcons could use the help in the trenches.

Jadeveon Clowney, EDGE

Clowney’s free agency lasted until August last year and signed a measly $2.5 million deal with the Ravens, but he turned in one of the best seasons of his career, with 9.5 sacks and 19 quarterback knockdowns. It’s tought to know what kind of money the 31-year-old will garner, but the Falcons need help badly at the position, and Clowney would immediately become the best pure pass rusher.

Stephon Gilmore, CB

Since winning Defensive Player of the Year in 2019, Gilmore has bounced around the league, playing with four teams in four years. He’s still a capable man corner and won’t be paid like the DPOY he was a few years ago. Moreover, he’s only missed two games in the past two years. The Falcons could use that kind of experience and durability at a position of need.

Xavien Howard, CB

Howard, who is also on the wrong side of the 30, is coming off a campaign in which he struggled to stay on the field. However, prior to the foot injury, Howard was playing great ball. He’s still got the ball skills that helped him log 10 interceptions a few years ago. Like Gilmore, the Falcons could use a veteran presence in a young cornerback room like Howard.

Ahkello Witherspoon, CB

Witherspoon missed most of the 2022 campaign but returned in 2023, turning in one of the best seasons of his career with the Rams. The connection is obvious with Raheem Morris and Jimmy Lake, both of whom were in Los Angeles last year. The Falcons need a cornerback, and Witherspoon would be a perfect addition for scheme, price, etc.

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