The comings and goings.
The Atlanta Falcons have approached free agency with extreme caution this year.
It was clear going into free agency that the goal would be to boost their defence and retain key players.
Overall, they have managed this without having to splash too much cash.
Salary cap struggles
Heading into 2025 free agency, the Falcons were $5.3 million over the salary cap.
They have managed to free up around $28.5 million, which leaves them with approximately $12 million to spend.
To achieve this, they restructured deals for A.J. Terrell, Jake Matthews and Chris Lindstrom.
Defensive moves
On defense, the Dirty Birds signed edge rusher Leonard Floyd to a one-year contract worth $10 million.
Floyd, a Georgia native, recorded 8.5 sacks last season for the San Francisco 49ers.
He also has a history with Falcons head coach Raheem Morris from their time at the LA Rams.
Linebacker Divine Deablo and defensive lineman Morgan Fox both signed two-year deals worth $14 million and $8.5 million, respectively.
In the secondary, they signed safety Jordan Fuller and cornerback Mike Ford.
Mike Hughes also re-signed for three years at $18 million to play alongside Terrell.
Offensive side
On offense, left tackle Jake Matthews extended for another two years at $45 million.
Tight end Feleipe Franks re-signed, mainly for special team responsibilities.
Wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge, a 2024 Pro Bowler, signed a two-year deal for $6 million.
Hodge scored the game-winning touchdown in Week 5 of the 2024 regular season.
Back-up tackle Storm Norton also signed again.
Two tickets to Chicago
Several big names have also departed the franchise.
Centre Drew Dalman signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Chicago Bears.
His departure clears the way for Ryan Neuzil to take over at centre.
Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett also joined the Chicago Bears, signing for three years at $43 million.
Safety Richie Grant moved to the 49ers, and return specialist Avery Williams has signed with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Learning from past mistakes
Going into free agency with limited funds, the Falcons opted for smart, shrewd additions.
The Falcons front office are still licking their wounds following the disastrous Kirk Cousins signing in 2024.
It was always crucial that the same expensive mistakes were not made again.
Following a poor 2024 season which harnessed so much promise, defense was always going to be the sole focus.
The Falcons ranked 28th in the league for points allowed per drive last season.
The defense still needs help at edge rusher and cornerback; this is expected to be addressed in the draft.
Overall, it is a sensible, straightforward strategy for 2025.
