The Atlanta Falcons have had a quiet offseason for the most part. Their most notable transactions include bringing back Adrian Clayborn, signing Jamon Brown, and cutting Robert Alford.
Since losing the Super Bowl in embarrassing fashion a couple of years ago, the Falcons haven't been the same. Of course, I'm talking about the time that Matt Ryan and company blew a 28-3 lead against the New England Patriots.
This offseason, Atlanta wants to put together a team that can get them back into contention. So what should their main priority for the rest of this offseason you may ask?
Signing Julio Jones to a long-term deal has to be at the top of the list of things to do for Thomas Dimitroff and the Falcons.
Jones has been wanting a new deal for the past few seasons and he's growing impatient.
Undoubtedly, Jones is one of the best wide receivers that the NFL has to offer. Therefore, he should be paid like one and the Falcons will want to make sure that they are the ones who give him the money.
Heading into 2019, Jones is set to make $9.6 million in his ninth season in the NFL. Comparatively, Jones will be the 15th highest-paid wideout in terms of base salary. That's asinine when you consider the production he has had for the Falcons over the years.
The Falcons superstar wide receiver has had five straight seasons of 80+ receptions and 1,400+ yards receiving. The receiver market was adjusted this offseason after Antonio Brown landed a new deal with the Oakland Raiders.
Brown forced his way out from Pittsburgh and demanded to receive a new contract from the Raiders.
As a result, Oakland obliged to his demands and gave him a new three-year, $50.12 million deal.
The former Steelers wideout also got a $1 million signing bonus along with $30.12 million in guarantees. Jones likely saw that and began smiling ear to ear—knowing he's up next.
If a veteran wide receiver in Brown can land a hefty contract so can Jones. Especially, considering that Jones has been nothing but patient and loyal to the Falcons organization.
The Falcons offense relies upon Julio to produce at a high level year in and year out. Jones could've easily have held out to receive a new contract at any point but has chosen not to do so.
Although, the longer Atlanta waits, the slimmer the chance that Jones stays long-term with the franchise. That is exactly why the Falcons need to try and get a deal in place before the beginning of the 2019 season.
The last thing that the Falcons want to happen is Jones getting tireless and holding out for a new deal. A hold out could inevitably lead to dealing the All-Pro wideout—which is likely not in Atlanta's plans.
Elite wide receivers aren't easy to come by and the Falcons need to realize that Jones is vital to their success. If the Falcons hope to get back to a Super Bowl they are going to need to keep Jones long-term by getting an extension done.
Dimitroff and the rest of the front office should spend the rest of this offseason working towards making Jones a happy camper by giving him a new deal.
Like Deion Sanders would say: just pay the man.
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