Which Falcons could be cut this offseason?

The Falcons have a good bit of cap space going into the offseason, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t create a little more. I already listed some players that they should consider re-signing, and it isn’t exactly a short list — even with a bad roster. However, I think there’s a few easy cuts they could make to get a little more wiggle room for retaining their own and grabbing some impact free agents. All figures are via Over The Cap:

QB Marcus Mariota

Let’s get the obvious out of the way. There are reports that Marcus Mariota basically quit on the Falcons after being benched, and Atlanta will incur a small penalty and recoup a lot of money if they cut ties before June 1st. They can get a better backup for Desmond Ridder at a lower price or draft a quarterback. They could also make a big move — a Derek Carr or Lamar Jackson sized move. Regardless, give me the cap savings over a guy who is sure to be cut before March 5th, when he’s owed a $3 million roster bonus.

Dead Money: $2.5 Million

Cap Savings: $12 Million

CB Casey Hayward

Hayward is less of a foregone conclusion. The savings aren’t drastic, and he hasn’t been terrible in Atlanta. Unfortunately, as they have throughout his career, injuries have plagued Hayward — limiting him to six games. The Falcons could look to recoup a little money and spend it elsewhere, especially with how well Darren Hall is playing and with Isaiah Oliver potentially being brought back. This is a pretty good class for cornerbacks as well.

Dead Money: $2 million

Cap Savings: $5 million

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