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ATLANTA FALCONS

3 Moves the Atlanta Falcons should consider making after the draft.

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1. Re-sign Calais Campbell

Yes, Grady Jarrett and David Onyemata make for a formidable tandem for the Falcons. Both players, though, are seasoned athletes who have recently dealt with ailments. For a considerable period, Campbell was Atlanta’s top defensive lineman. Even at his advanced age, Campbell’s playing is still exceptionally good.

The Falcons may decide to let go of a seasoned player because they do have depth at the position. Although this makes sense in theory, it doesn’t account for Campbell’s leadership style. In conversations and interactions with colleagues, it was clear how respected the veteran is.

Calais is the ultimate professional; he plays at a high level and defies the passage of time. Will Calais return for another season is the real question here, not whether Atlanta should make the move. Both retirement and playing for a definite Super Bowl contender are options. Although they are not a Super Bowl candidate, the Falcons are in the playoff conversation.

Given his current playing level, Calais might choose to play as a backup for any of the league’s best clubs. Whether it means teaming up with Patrick Mahomes or going back to Baltimore. Atlanta should still try to get back together.

2. Finish the job at receiver

Due to cap space constraints, inexpensive players must be added or the position must be drafted. The addition of Rondale Moore and Darnell Mooney by the Falcons has already significantly improved the position. On the other hand, the Falcons will employ a scheme that frequently sees three receivers on the field.

In light of this, the Falcons ought to have two more players than they had under Arthur Smith. They must continue to search aggressively for an impact addition if they are unable to select a contributor at the position. The team must keep adding depth, whether it’s in the form of an aging veteran or someone like Russell Gage.

They could have Rondale Moore as their backup and Darnell Mooney as their main target with just one injury left. Even if Bijan Robinson and Kyle Pitts undoubtedly deepen your offense, you must approach the position knowing that, with Kirk Cousins and Zac Robinson now leading the charge, it is even more crucial.

There are still a ton of veteran alternatives available in free agency that match the roster in Atlanta. Look for at least one move at the position if the team doesn’t get a receiver selected in the first round.

3. Cut Lorenzo Carter and bring in another edge rusher

Verse, Latu, or Turner will start for the Falcons at one edge position if the draft goes as it should. Your other beginning choices are Lorenzo Carter and Arnold Ebiketie. Carter isn’t a reliable pass rusher, but he has been an excellent defender. Ebiketie, on the other hand, has performed admirably at getting to the quarterback but has struggled to effectively finish plays or defend the run.

The Falcons need to bring in a balance between the two players. Bud Dupree returning could be that answer with the team starting a rookie and Ebiketie with Dupree able to step in. Lorenzo Carter remaining on the roster is an odd decision when you consider his impact and the lack of ability to get to the quarterback.

Having a solid edge to defend the run is great for the defense. But the value in this is offset if the quarterback understands they are rarely going to be a threat. It is far better to have Ebiketie in the lineup with the hope he improves as a tackler. At this stage of Carter’s career, it is doubtful he improves getting to the quarterback.

 

 

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