Falcons post-draft free agent target: Ereck Flowers

After drafting Drake London to replenish a weak receiving core, the Falcons offense is actually looking pretty good, except for one glaring hole — the offensive line. PFF ranked the Falcons’ blockers 27th in the league last season; there are holes across the unit. Atlanta could use an upgrade at at least two positions, if not three, which is why I am surprised they haven’t brought in more competition… at least, not yet. Following the Grady Jarrett extension, the Falcons have a little coin to spend on the remaining free agents, and Ereck Flowers is a potential target. 

Ereck Flowers

Ereck Flowers has had a tumultuous career to this point, bouncing along four different teams. He struggled at tackle early on in his career, but found success as a guard with Washington last season. PFF gave him 72.0 grade, and you don’t have to scroll far down their guard rankings to find Flowers’ name. Compared to Mayfield’s 49.2, Flowers is a considerable upgrade. Despite being wildly inconsistent, the upside is massive.

So, that settles it, right? Terry Fontenot should go out and sign Flowers. I wish it were that simple. Atlanta’s cap is still tight, even after the Grady Jarrett extension, and the 28-year-old guard could command a sizable contract. Regardless, the Falcons have to be in contact with every offensive guard that remains a free agent. Rolling Jalen Mayfield out there with no legitimate competition is the purest form of tanking. 

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