Falcons: If David DeCastro plays in 2021, the Falcons have to make him a priority signing

In a shocking move, nine-year Pittsburgh Steeler David DeCastro has been released.

The #Steelers have released guard David DeCastro, a surprise. They had Trai Turner in for a visit last week. In the DeCastro release, they save $8.75M in cap space.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 24, 2021

Apparently, DeCastro is battling an ankle injury and is “mulling his future.” I was still shocked he was released; I figured they would bury that guy under Heinz Field. However, if DeCastro does decide to give it a go in 2021, the Falcons have to make their best effort to sign him. With Matt Gono injured for an undisclosed amount of time and the interior offensive line still a massive question mark, this is a signing that makes way too much sense. The two-time All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowler is only 31 and would immediately improve this Falcons offensive line that has had problem spots for years.

https://twitter.com/PFF/status/1408155580448100352?s=20

Chris Lindstrom has already stated that he’s open to moving to left guard, but I think DeCastro could serve in that role as well if he needs to. Hopefully, DeCastro is enticed with the opportunity of playing for Dwayne Ledford, who is a fantastic offensive line coach. Even though his ankle is hurt at the moment, DeCastro has been rock solid for the Steelers. Since 2013, he has only missed seven starts. Teams rarely get an opportunity to address a position of need like this in late June, but the Falcons should have the money to work something out. Perhaps the Julio Jones trade could take another turn, this time in the form of helping to solidify Atlanta’s offensive line.