The Atlanta Falcons offseason should be packed with a ton of drama. This team is still dealing with a horrible cap situation, but the end is on the horizon. With a few simple moves, Atlanta could find themselves on top of the NFC South. For that reason, we take a look at some of our Falcons offseason predictions as the NFL enters a new football year.
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With Matt Ryan not getting any younger and his contract finally coming to an end soon, now is the best time for the Falcons to find his replacement. Although many are skeptical of this year's rookie class, Atlanta has the privilege to select who they like and let him learn behind Ryan for a couple of years.
From there, Atlanta has some work to do to generate a competitive roster. The front office could look to make some changes in the backfield, especially with Cordarrelle Patterson up for a new contract. Additionally, the Falcons should be considering trading Calvin Ridley and making major changes to their wide receiver group.
With that said, here are four bold Falcons offseason predictions.
Falcons Offseason Predictions
4. Front office drafts a rookie quarterback to eventually replace Matt Ryan
Restructuring Matt Ryan's contract wouldn't help the cap situation, as it would only make things worse in the long run. Instead, the Falcons should ride it out until he retires, which isn't a bad scenario either. Having said that, Atlanta can get a head start on developing a prospect quarterback by drafting a rookie in the upcoming NFL Draft.
This would allow the Falcons to remain competitive in the NFC South, which they can, considering that division is in shambles right now. Arthur Smith is an offensive guru and could be looking to handpick his quarterback of the future. It would be a smart move for this team, considering the rookie would have no pressure to start immediately.
3. Falcons cut Mike Davis, re-sign Cordarrelle Patterson
It's safe to say the Mike Davis experiment didn't pan out. He failed to maintain the starting role and struggled throughout the season. Meanwhile, Cordarrelle Patterson provided a unique spark that boosted the Falcons' offense. It'd be wise for the front office to release Davis and reward Patterson for his efforts.
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2. Atlanta trades Calvin Ridley
Nobody knows exactly what is going on with Calvin Ridley, but most signs point towards an eventual trade. Ridley has proven to be a reliable pass option and should garner interest if he requests to leave. The Falcons have already acknowledged they'll deal him away if he wants, which might be for the best. If they can receive some decent draft capital, Atlanta would be setting themselves up for a nice rebuild.
1. The team makes a complete overhaul to the wide receiver room
If Ridley is traded then this wide receiver group becomes a major liability. Kyle Pitts will be the best pass option by a long shot. For that reason, we could see the Falcons make numerous moves to improve the receiving core. Between trading, free agency, and the NFL Draft, this franchise could make a splash in the offseason.
They're not likely to sign one of the big-name receivers, as the cap situation prevents the front office from doing much. Although, the Falcons could look to acquire a prospect receiver if they trade Calvin Ridley. Additionally, this draft class is loaded with wide receiver talent, giving this team a real opportunity to revamp their putrid receiving core.