The Falcons are once again expected to be active this offseason as the franchise searches for its next quarterback.
Whether that be in free agency, the draft, or through the trade market, Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot have already made it clear their intentions are to upgrade the position.
Outside of quarterback, the roster is in pretty good shape. Unlike his predecessor, Morris takes over a team that is ready to compete. There are still a few holes to be filled, but it’s not nearly as profound as when Arthur Smith took over in Atlanta.
As always, a consistent pass rusher off the edge has to be a focus this offseason. The free agent class is absolutely loaded with top end talent that will garner immense financial commitment but also cheaper options too. Moreover, the draft could produce a prospect that Fontenot selects with the 8th overall pick.
The Falcons could use a starting-caliber cornerback opposite of A.J. Terrell, even if it is to compete with Mike Hughes and Clark Phillips. The free agent and draft classes aren’t as robust as the edge defender market, though.
Quarterback, EDGE, and cornerback are three of the top roster needs, but wide receiver is one that could be held in that same regard, despite the Falcons spending a first-round pick two years ago on Drake London.
A couple of prospects in the draft could fall to the 8th pick, and there are a few free agent targets that make sense, but a lot will depend on Zac Robinson and his preference. Even with wideout being a need, it’s still among the strengths of this roster.
In fact, during his press conference, Raheem Morris was asked what he liked about the Falcons team, to which he responded, “Easy — Drake London, Bijan Robinson.”
The Falcons skill group, including Kyle Pitts, was a big draw for head coaches. At least offensively, the unit is a quarterback away. The offensive line is set to return all five starters, and the skill group is among the best in the league, even if they weren’t properly utilized under Arthur Smith.
So, it’s no surprise that Bleacher Report identified it as the Falcons biggest roster strength.
The Falcons’ biggest strength, though, is an impressive collection of skill players that can help elevate their next signal-caller. Wideout Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts both have elite upside, while the backfield duo of Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier is simply superb. Atlanta also boasts a terrific second tight end in Jonnu Smith.
All of these playmakers are under contract through 2024, and virtually any quarterback would be thrilled to operate with this core group. However, Atlanta is still a piece or two away from fielding a truly elite group.
The Falcons desperately need more reliable receiver options behind London. Mack Hollins was Atlanta’s second-most-productive wideout with just 18 catches for 251 yards. He’s set to be a free agent, along with Van Jefferson, Scotty Miller, KhaDarel Hodge and Cordarrelle Patterson.
The foundation for one of the NFL’s best offensive skill groups is in place.
The Falcons certainly need a complement to Drake London in the receiver room, but with Jonnu Smith and Tyler Allgeier under contract, the skill group is robust with talent past the top three.
Falcons fans should be excited about what Zac Robinson can do with this group, so long as they figure out the quarterback position.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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