The Falcons have the second most cap space in the NFL this offseason. With a need for defenders, there might not be a more impactful free agent than Javon Hargrave.
The former Pittsburgh Steeler has thrived with the Eagles, becoming one of the most effective interior pass rushers in football. Outside of Aaron Donald and Chris Jones, there might not be a more productive pass rusher from the inside than Javon Hargrave.
Chuck Smith, a former Falcons pass rusher and mentor and current Ravens position coach, told Dukes and Bell on 92.9 The Game that Hargrave and Grady Jarrett would be the most dynamic inside duo in the NFL.
If the @AtlantaFalcons could pull off a Javon Hargrave signing @chucksmithnfl says he and @GradyJarrett would be the most dynamic inside duo in the NFL.
— MikeBell929 (@MikeBellATL) March 7, 2023
It’s not ground shattering news; the combination of Jarrett and Hargrave would give offensive lines hell.
Hargrave’s 18.8% pass-rush win rate since 2020 ranks third among all defenders at his position, per PFF. He will be 30 years old for the 2023 season, but there’s no reason to believe Javon Hargrave can’t maintain this level of play; we’ve seen plenty of players maintain longevity.
During his time with the Steelers and Eagles, Hargrave has played various alignments across the line of the scrimmage. He’d be a versatile piece for Ryan Nielsen.
Some may knock his run defense, but I’d argue Hargrave’s role dictated the play. I believe the Falcons could ask him to assume multiple roles. He’s a significant reason for the Eagles’ defensive success. After posting a career-high 7.5 sacks and nine tackles for loss a year ago, Hargrave eclipsed those marks with 11 sacks and 10 tackles for loss. He’s set to cash in, and I wouldn’t count out Howie Roseman from re-signing the powerful defender.
Hargrave will likely command close to $20 million per year, so if the Falcons chose to sign him, it’ll be the splash of the offseason.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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