The Falcons face a tough offseason ahead of them. Raheem Morris’ coaching team is nearly full, with Zac Robinson managing the offence, Jimmy Lake coordinating the defence, and Marquice Williams still in control of the third phase of the game.
The rest of the offseason will be focused on what Terry Fontenot and the front office can do to provide the new coaching staff with the strongest possible roster to break the Falcons’ postseason drought, which began in the 2018 season.
It’s in good but not great form. There is an excellent basis, however there are still some issues that must be addressed. The quarterback position is the most crucial to me; I believe it is a more important decision than hiring a head coach or offensive coordinator.
Acquiring a long-term solution for the role is essential. There are others, however. The Falcons need more pass rushers, particularly on the edge, another receiver or two to complement Drake London, a cornerback to fight with Clark Phillips III for the slot opposite A.J. Terrell, and, as always, bodies in the trenches are essential.
The Falcons also have many crucial decisions to make regarding internal free agents. Bud Dupree led the defence with 6.5 sacks and should not be written off. If the Falcons are unable to enhance the position, Dupree is a solid backup option.
Jeff Okudah is likewise preparing to test free agency. The former third-round pick had a rough 2023 season, mirroring his career. Okudah enjoyed a few promising weeks before an injury forced him out of the lineup. When he returned, he struggled tremendously. In terms of depth, Okudah may cover the vacancy, but I don’t think the Falcons should expect him to start in 2024.
Scotty Miller and Kentavius Street are the other upcoming free agents who have attracted my curiosity. The former is a speedster who may thrive in Zac Robinson’s offence, especially given the Falcons’ paucity of receiving options. The latter provided crucial depth along the defensive line.
However, none of them have the potential to be as effective as Calais Campbell, who ESPN believes is the Falcons’ most important upcoming free agency choice.
This would have been an easy decision if Arthur Smith had been retained as Falcons coach, and Campbell would have likely had the option of returning following a 56-tackle, 6.5-sack season. There are several layers to this. Does Campbell, who will be 38 next season, want to continue playing? If the answer is yes, does he support Raheem Morris’ coaching staff’s vision and road to immediate success? And does Morris’ staff want to invest in Campbell, who faces a $7.5 million cap in 2023? These are the questions that will help determine Campbell’s future in Atlanta. — Michael Rothstein
I do not believe this is a Falcons decision, but rather a Calais Campbell decision. If Campbell wishes to play in Atlanta, Raheem Morris would be foolish not to embrace him with open arms.
However, the veteran may be considering retirement or other free agent destinations. Jacksonville seems like a good fit. Campbell formerly played for the Jaguars, where he had his greatest seasons, and Ryan Nielsen is the new defensive coordinator.
The Falcons should definitely spread out the red carpet for Calais Campbell, but it’s not entirely their decision.
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