3 moves the Atlanta Falcons should make after Day 1 of free agency
The Dirty Birds came out swinging on the legal tampering day with three massive signings, including bringing back one of their own, but it’s not over. What can the Atlanta Falcons do next?
Tampering has begun for the 2023 NFL free agency, and we saw some names sign on the proverbial dotted lines. The Atlanta Falcons weren’t holding back. Out the gate, they traded a seventh-round pick to the Patriots for tight end Jonnu Smith. Fans of the Falcons know this move is a win-win for Arthur Smith’s offense. Jonnu Smith’s best season happened during his and Arthur Smith’s time with the Titans. In 2020 Smith caught eight touchdowns for 498 yards. Smith will likely run a ton of 12-personnel with Jonnu and Kyle Pitts. Running backs Tyler Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson should be grinning ear-to-ear.
Smith’s trade was the tip of the iceberg. The Falcons through some money at their right guard Chris Lindstrom to a five-year extension. They signed arguably the best safety in the NFL, Jessie Bates to a 4-year, $64 million deal. They followed up by signing defensive tackle David Onyemata to a 3-year, $35 million deal, making it clear they are signing free agents that can help them get into the playoffs. Given the NFC South a ripe for the taking, there are a few more moves the Falcons can make to solidify their roster as they look to take the South.
3 moves for the Atlanta Falcons to take the NFC South in 2023
3. Shore up the secondary with a corner
Jessie Bates was one move that will help change the Falcons’ life on defense. However, they desperately need to add a corner. The Falcons’ defense backs suffered from the injury bug, so reliability is an issue. Isiah Oliver is a guy they can always bring back if he doesn’t get picked up right away. Even then, they’ll need some more help. The free agents that are available aren’t really worth the money the Falcons will be forced to pay. They should sign a veteran, but draft day is their best option.
Depending on what the Falcons are looking for, they could get their star corner early in the 2023 NFL Draft. Christian Gonzalez could fall to them. If he’s gone, Joey Porter Jr is another option. His wingspan is second to none and he’s a physical man press corner similar to Darius Slay (Eagles). He’s a plug-and-play corner that set the tone and becomes a leader of the defense. Cam Smith from South Carolina is another great option, but he’s more of a day prospect. UM’ s Tyrique Stevenson is another physical press corner who can be available on Day 2. The Falcons will have options at the corner position thanks to the depth in this year’s draft.