The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly trying to trade All-Pro wide receiver Julio Jones. However, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett could play a role in whether Jones stays or goes.
Like Jones, Jarrett also carries a big cap hit. The two-time Pro Bowler is on the books for over $20 million in 2021 before his contract expires.
The 28-year-old was asked about the potential for an extension. He didn't exactly state he would be thrilled to sign one with the Falcons, but also hinted he was open to working something out. In short, Jarrett is telling Atlanta to call his agent:
“When it comes to contracts, everybody knows I’m represented by Todd France,” Jarrett said, via D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “Call Todd about the contract stuff. It ain’t no secret. You know what I’m saying. Call Todd. He’ll talk to the people up here and everything is going to work out. So, call big Todd.”
A Jarrett restructure would bring the Falcons that much closer to alleviating some of their cap issues. It very well could resemble Matt Ryan's extension earlier in the offseason, whereby Atlanta spread out the longtime signal-caller's money.
Restructuring Jones' contract is probably not happening. A trade might be a bit unlikely because of the cap hit. However, a Jarrett extension would circumvent some cap issues and also give Atlanta a much-needed presence in the middle of the defense.
Jarrett had 4.5 sacks and a career-high 21 quarterback hits in 2020. He is a vital asset in an otherwise underwhelming Falcons defense.
Perhaps inking Jarrett to a new deal will give Atlanta a path forward. It might allow the Falcons to retain Jones, giving them an incredibly dangerous offense with first-round pick Kyle Pitts joining the fray.
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