Like the Falcons’ receiving corps, the pass rush unit is in desperate need of an influx of talent. For as long as I can remember, Atlanta has been unable to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks. It was only a matter of time before Terry Fontenot added to the position, whether that be from free agency or the draft — to be honest, one pass rusher from each is necessary. The Falcons already dipped into free agency, signing Lorenzo Carter, who believes Atlanta is a great fit.
New Falcons edge rusher Lorenzo Carter: "It’s a good fit. (Defensive coordinator Dean) Pees does a good job of sending pressure and having guys coming off the edges."
— Josh Kendall (@JoshTheAthletic) April 7, 2022
Carter hasn’t shown he can shoulder the load of a defense’s pass rush, but he’s still only 26 years old and is coming off a season where he posted five sacks in 14 games. A former third-round pick, Carter capitalized on a solid end to the 2021 season, recording four of his five sacks in the last few weeks of the year.
The former Bulldog has 14.5 career sacks over four seasons and is a very well-rounded EDGE defender, but he’s still not able to anchor a pass rush. Carter is the best pure pass rusher on the team, but that’s more indicative of the personnel than his pedigree.
The Atlanta native joins Ade Ogundeji, who is the presumptive starter opposite Carter. But the Falcons need to add to this group in the draft. Sure, the scheme fit might be perfect, but Carter isn’t able to touch the double-digit sack range, which all elite pass rushers can do. It’s a high upside free agent signing, but the Falcons still need more.
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