The Falcons have a clear need for a pass rusher, but they have yet to satisfy it.
Terry Fontenot should not enter the draft with the defense as it now stands. Atlanta’s general manager needs to add a proven commodity at the edge, and PFF views the Falcons as a free agent destination for Chiefs pass rusher Mike Danna.
Danna is the definition of a solid, high-floor player who understands his role, manages his gap, and makes plays when they come his way. He isn’t the most explosive athlete off the line, but he does a good job of driving opposing tackles back into the pocket. In a larger role in 2023, we saw him improve at separating his hands from blockers and pursuing the quarterback.
According to Pro Football Focus, Danna is expected to get a three-year, $24.75 million contract in free agency after recording 6.5 sacks, 5o tackles, and three passes defended last season. The 26-year-old played 76.4% of the team’s defensive snaps and 15.2% on special teams.
Arnold Ebiketie (6 sacks), Lorenzo Carter (3 sacks), and DeAngelo Malone (0 sacks) return from last season. That is simply pitiful. Even if Ebiketie’s development accelerates and he records double-digit sacks, what’s the harm in getting another strong pass rusher?
NFL defenses will never have enough pass rushers. Look at the league’s top teams — Ravens, Chiefs, Dolphins, and Bills – they all have numerous pass rushers who can pressure quarterbacks.
The Falcons don’t need help on the interior, but their edge leaves a lot to be desired. However, Danna would not be the solution. Drafting a pass rusher at No. 8 would help to strengthen the unit in a crucial way.
In the same vein, Falcons supporters should not simply expect a rookie to be the solution. They could be part of the solution, but not the whole thing. Rookie pass rushers rarely give a defense 10 sacks right away.
None of this would be a big deal if the Falcons hadn’t paid Kirk Cousins $180 million. When they did this, the team indicated that they are competing for championships. Now, they must put together a championship-caliber defense, beginning with the pass rush.
Leave a Reply