The Falcons have a ton to think about this offseason ahead of Raheem Morris’ first season as head coach. However, there shouldn’t be too many difficult decisions in regards to their own free agents, as only four Falcons appear on PFF’s list of the top 200 free agents entering the 2024 offseason.
88. DI CALAIS CAMPBELL, ATLANTA FALCONS
Campbell is an ageless wonder who continued to be one of the strongest players in the NFL at his new stop in Atlanta this past season, with a dip in burst off the line when rushing the passer made up for by an anchor against the run as difficult to displace as any defensive lineman in the NFL.
Top free agent comparison: Julius Peppers, 2018
There’s no debate about who the Falcons’ top priority should be when it comes to their 2024 free agents. Calais Campbell may be approaching 40 years old, but he was one of the best defenders on the team, tying for the team lead in sacks with 6.5 while proving to be stout against the run. But beyond just what he brings on the field, Campbell’s experience and locker room presence is invaluable to a team with a lot of young pass rushers on the roster.
When Arthur Smith was fired and Ryan Nielsen left to become the defensive coordinator in Jacksonville, it seemed like it might be difficult to convince Campbell to return to Atlanta. However, Raheem Morris’ top attribute is the relationships he has around the league. Players want to play for him, and Terry Fontenot has apparently already reached out to Campbell about returning. If the future Hall of Famer decides to play another year, it looks like the Falcons have a good shot at bringing him back.
147. EDGE BUD DUPREE, ATLANTA FALCONS
Dupree had a solid bounce-back 2023 campaign after missing time over the 2021 and 2022 seasons. He can still convert speed to power off the edge. He’s a bit stiff in his hips and has lost some explosiveness after injuries but can be a solid rotational piece in a defensive line platoon.
Top free agent comparison:Â Sam Acho, 2018
Dupree was tied with Calais Campbell for the most sacks on the Falcons this past season. It was a nice bounce back season for him after signing a one-year deal with the team last spring. The Falcons need to add multiple bodies at the EDGE position, and bringing Dupree back wouldn’t be a bad idea. However, it’s very possible they look to upgrade and overhaul the position entirely this offseason.
Two other Falcons appeared on the list — Jeff Okudah and Mack Hollins. Like the EDGE position, the Falcons could stand to overhaul both the cornerback and wide receiver rooms. Okudah began the year looking like someone that could be apart of the team’s future plans, but injuries and inconsistencies were the stories of the second half of his season, much like the rest of his career. I could see the Falcons bringing him back on a short-term deal as depth, but it’s likely he finds a new home this offseason.
Mack Hollins wasn’t nearly as effective this past season as he was with the Raiders the year prior. He only caught 18 passes for 251 yards and was effectively phased out of the offense by the end of the year. I don’t see him being a guy new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson is likely to want back.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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