It seems like the list of defensive linemen heading to free agency could increase this offseason. The Atlanta Falcons might be unable to keep Grady Jarrett long-term.
According to D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Falcons and Jarrett are “not close” to a long-term deal.
The Falcons would be losing a very talented player in Jarrett if they aren't able to preserve Jarrett. Head coach Dan Quinn has said that placing the franchise tag on Jarrett is a possibility.
The franchise tag would come at a hefty price though, as it would cost the Falcons around $15 million. The problem is, the Falcons only hold around $22 million in cap space this offseason.
In most circumstances though, players aren't too fond of playing on the tag. If Jarrett hits free agency, he would immediately become one of the best interior defensive linemen available.
Since being drafted in the fifth-round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Jarrett has been a formidable defensive tackle for Atlanta.
In the past three seasons, Jarrett has yielded 13 sacks, 82 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles. This past season was definitely his best, as he had six sacks, eight tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles.
If there are any teams looking for a run-stuffing defensive tackle that is still very capable of sacking the quarterback, Jarrett is the guy. Jarrett should be a priority for the Falcons this offseason.
The Falcons also have to make decisions on Bruce Irvin and Brian Poole on their defense. They also have shown a possible interest in trading Vic Beasley as well.
Hearing that Jarrett and Atlanta are not close on a deal is not what Falcons fans want to hear.
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