The Falcons are hosting cornerback Mike Hughes on a free agent visit this weekend, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.
Cornerback Mike Hughes is making a free agency visit to the #Falcons over the weekend, per source.
The former first-round pick could reunite with assistant head coach Jerry Gray, who coached Hughes in Minnesota.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 17, 2023
The former first-round pick began his career in Minnesota with the Vikings back in 2018. The UCF product was the 30th overall pick and was traded to the Chiefs last year for just a sixth-round pick before testing free agency.
Hughes spent last season with the Lions, appearing in 16 games for Detroit. He certainly hasn’t lived up to his lofty draft status, but he fits for a Falcons defense that needs a nickel corner. Though he might not be a lockdown cover man, he’s a more than willing tackler and effective as a blitzer — necessary traits for a slot defender.
Injuries really hampered his career early, but he’s remained healthy over the last two seasons. He’s only 26 years old and won’t break the bank; it makes some sense for the Falcons. Moreover, there is a connection, as Fowler points out. Jerry Gray coached Hughes in Minnesota.
Atlanta could turn to an internal option like Dee Alford to roam the slot, but Mike Hughes provides a bit more experience in that scenario. He signed a one-year deal worth $3.5 million with the Lions last year, and I would expect him to garner less compensation this offseason. Still, there seem to be better options available. Hughes has had his fair share of struggles; hopefully, it would be as a depth piece signing if a deal comes to fruition.
—
You must log in to post a comment.