The Atlanta Falcons saw a lot of change this offseason, seeing a coaching change with new Kevin Stefanski replacing Raheem Morris. Stefanski retained defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich but replaced former offensive coordinator Zac Taylor with Tommy Rees.
The Falcons also hired general manager Ian Cunningham this offseason, replacing former GM Terry Fontenot.
Heading into the offseason, the team is non-committal to quarterback Michael Penix Jr., will release quarterback Kirk Cousins, and has a number of free agents with low cap space.
Atlanta Falcons Free Agency Outlook
Cap Space: After officially franchise tagging tight end Kyle Pitts, the Atlanta Falcons currently have $10.9 million in cap space according to spotrac.com. This ranks 17th out of 32nd in the league. This doesn’t account for releasing WR KhaDarel Hodge, which will save the team $2.6 million in cap space.
Needs: QB, WR, DL, OL
This new Falcons’ coaching staff and management hasn’t been committed to Michael Penix Jr. as its franchise quarterback. Kirk Cousins is set to be released this offseason and there’s a strong chance he doesn’t return back to the team.
Outside of Drake London, the Falcons lack productivity at the receiver position. Darnell Mooney wad the Falcons’ WR2 with a stat line of 32 receptions for 443 receiving yards, and one touchdown. Outside of him and London, no other Falcons WR caught a touchdown last season.
The interior defensive line has six of its nine members either leaving the team or hitting free agency. The trenches need some depth, and could be addressed in both free agency and the draft.
The offensive line has several guys that will be free agents and starting right tackle Kaleb McGary is returning this season from a significant knee injury suffered last season.
Falcons’ Free Agents They Should Retain:
The Falcons have a number of free agents set to hit free agency in a few weeks. They will likely retain a number of their own guys. The Falcons should prioritize retaining guys like kicker Zane Gonzalez, edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie, and linebacker Kaden Elliss.
Who Falcons Should Target:
-CB Cam Taylor-Britt
-WR Jauan Jennings
-DL Foley Fatukasi
-OL Liam Eichenberg
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