The Atlanta Falcons are coming off of their second straight season of missing the playoffs after going 7-9. Despite the Falcons failing to live up to expectations, they chose to keep Dan Quinn as their head coach for next season.
Considering how the last two seasons have unfolded, Quinn will likely begin 2020 on the hot seat. Therefore, it is important for the Falcons to have a successful offseason this year.
Unlike some teams, Atlanta isn't going to have much money to spend in free agency. To be exact, the Falcons currently have just $5.6 million in cap space, according to Spotrac.
Provided that, Atlanta is going to have better their roster through the 2020 NFL Draft, for the most part. With that being said, what would a perfect offseason look like for the Falcons?
Re-Sign Austin Hooper
The Falcons enter the offseason with a few marquee players set to test free agency. Among them, Austin Hooper is likely the most notable name that Atlanta would like to retain.
Over the past two seasons, Hooper has evolved into a go-to target for Matt Ryan in the passing attack. Since 2018, Hooper has combined for 146 receptions, 1,447 yards, and 10 touchdowns.
With the Falcons' current cap situation, they'll have to make a few roster moves to even have room to re-sign Hooper. However, Atlanta should do everything they can to bring back the dynamic tight end next season.
Draft D'Andre Swift in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft
Just a month before free agency, there are rumors that the Falcons could release Devonta Freeman this offseason. Prior to the 2017 season, Freeman signed a five-year, $41 million extension.
By releasing Freeman, the Falcons would create $3.5 million in cap savings while also incurring a $6 million dead-cap penalty. With Freeman likely on his way out, Atlanta should find his replacement in the draft.
In the second round of the draft, the Falcons could have a chance at selecting D'Andre Swift. Swift, who spent his collegiate career at Georgia, would give Atlanta a dynamic running back for the foreseeable future.
Draft K'Lavon Chaisson in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft
Shortly after Super Bowl 54 concluded, Atlanta made an announcement that they would not be re-signing Vic Beasley. The former first-round pick has disappointed in recent seasons since his All-Pro season in 2016.
While Beasley is headed elsewhere, the Falcons will need to address the pass-rushing department in the upcoming draft. Luckily for them, someone like K'Lavon Chaisson could be available when the Falcons are on the clock in the first round.
Chaisson is an explosive pass rusher that should make an immediate impact on Atlanta's defense. Coming away with Chaisson and Swift in the first two rounds of the draft would be a home run for the Falcons.
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