The Falcons filled their biggest roster hole in the first wave of free agency.
Everyone acknowledged Atlanta’s need to fix the quarterback issue. Hell, Raheem Morris went as far as to say that if the team had better play at the position last year, he wouldn’t be the head coach today.
Terry Fontenot mulled trading up in the draft, but once it was clear that none of the top teams were coming off their picks, the Falcons GM turned his focus to their top target — Kirk Cousins.
At the behest of Arthur Blank, Fontenot did whatever it took, going further in guarantees, years, and average annual value than the Vikings were willing to go. The Falcons got their guy, and it simultaneously signaled Atlanta’s window opening.
Winning the division is no longer good enough with Kirk Cousins. The Falcons have to experience some kind of postseason success, and to do that, they must fill the rest of the roster holes.
The offense could probably use another starting-caliber wide receiver, but my eye is on the defense, specifically the EDGE unit, which is currently comprised of Arnold Ebiketie, Lorenzo Carter, and DeAngelo Malone. That’s not good enough for a team that wants to compete seriously.
With all of the top free agents off the market, the Falcons could turn their attention to the trade market, and it seems they have. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler linked the team to a possible Haason Reddick trade.
Via @JFowlerESPN on Sports Center:
“The expectation league-wide is that Haason Reddick is moved at some point.”
Fowler lists the #Cardinals as a team to watch, referencing Jonathan Gannon’s connection with the pass-rusher, also adds “Atlanta to an extent” as well.
Will the…
— Bryce Lewis (@Bryce_Lewis86) March 23, 2024
Reddick’s made an All-Pro team and two Pro Bowls over the last two seasons, and he hasn’t recorded fewer than 11 sacks since 2019. If that kind of production is available, the Falcons should have no problem parting ways with the draft compensation and handing him an extension.
The former first-round pick is turning 30 next season but is showing no signs of slowing down. Heading into the final year of his deal, the Falcons would seemingly extend him after acquiring him.
With Kirk Cousins in the fold, the Falcons have to start pushing the chips into the middle, which begins with upgrading a mediocre (at best) pass rush. Reddick’s new deal won’t be cheap, but Fontenot has done an excellent job setting up Atlanta’s salary cap to withstand this kind of contract.
The Falcons might have to restructure a couple of deals, but it’s completely feasible and would be the kind of move that shows the fans and other teams they’re going for it.
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Photographer: Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire
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