Which Falcons are cut candidates in the 2022 offseason? (Defense)

The Falcons have some really tough decisions to make this offseason, and the franchise is at a crossroads. They can either trade away Matt Ryan and other key pieces or try to compete as his career winds down. I’m in favor of the former, but regardless, the Falcons are likely going to have to make a few cuts to save some money. If you want to read about how much cap space they have projected, you can find that here. I’m not advocating for any of these cuts, but let’s look at some defensive players who could be on the roster bubble. All figures are via Over the Cap. Offensive cut candidates are linked below:

• Which Falcons are cut candidates in the 2022 offseason? (Offense)

IDL Tyeler Davison

Tyeler Davison was cut last offseason, but the Falcons brought him back on a reduced deal. Regardless, we’ve seen him as a healthy scratch a few times this season, and I wouldn’t be shocked if the Falcons decided to move on from him this offseason.

Dead Money (Pre June 1st): $1.21 million

Cap Savings (Pre June 1st): $3.8 million

Dead Money (Post June 1st): $1.21 million

Cap Savings (Post June 1st): $3.8 million

EDGE John Cominsky

I’m a big Cominsky fan, and he showed some flashes again this season, but he still didn’t find a consistent role in Atlanta’s pass rush. I think with the lack of warm bodies, the Falcons keep him, but I wouldn’t be too shocked if they just decide to take the small amount of money to use on a veteran minimum free agent.

Dead Money (Pre June 1st): $122k

Cap Savings (Pre June 1st): $965k

Dead Money (Post June 1st): $122k

Cap Savings (Post June 1st): $965k

LB James Vaughters

Vaughters hasn’t been a huge part of this Falcons defense, and this will really all depend on how the coaching staff feels about him. You’d basically be subbing out one minimum contract for another.

Dead Money (Pre June 1st): $0

Cap Savings (Pre June 1st): $965k

Dead Money (Post June 1st): $0

Cap Savings (Post June 1st): $965k

CB Kendall Sheffield

I’m not sure what it means for his future, but Kendall Sheffield was a cut candidate this last offseason. The Falcons held onto him, even after injury struck, which means they may see something there. Their evaluation at the end of this year will be crucial, but at this point — they don’t have a lot of depth or money for a replacement.

Dead Money (Pre June 1st): $189.9k

Cap Savings (Pre June 1st): $2.54 million

Dead Money (Post June 1st): $189.9k

Cap Savings (Post June 1st): $2.54 million