The 2023 Falcons offseason gained attention primarily due to their decision not to pursue Lamar Jackson, who was amidst a contract dispute with the Baltimore Ravens. That decision didn’t pan out well.
Could the standout feature of the 2024 offseason for the Falcons be their choice to pass on the renowned Bill Belichick in favor of appointing Raheem Morris as head coach?
The Falcons missed out on a playoff spot on the final day of the regular season, failing to clinch the NFC South, which led to the dismissal of head coach Arthur Smith. Management believed the team had the potential for postseason success, especially with promising offensive talents like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts.
Now, with Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot at the helm, the priority is finding the right quarterback if Desmond Ridder isn’t the solution. In the NFL, the quarterback situation often dictates the team’s fate.
Fontenot expressed a desire for Campbell, 37, to stay, but a new coaching regime might prompt the defensive standout to explore other options for the twilight of his career. Patterson may find himself short on opportunities with Robinson and Tyler Allgeier leading the backfield. Okudah, who hasn’t fulfilled his high draft pick potential since leaving Detroit, is likely to depart. Dupree and Jefferson might consider returning after their respective one-year deals, possibly reuniting with former coach Zac Robinson.
The Falcons took a chance on Ridder as a third-round quarterback prospect, but his potential seems limited after 17 starts in two seasons. Defensively, Atlanta might seek upgrades, especially on the line where Campbell and Dupree led with 13 sacks combined. The team ranked 21st in sacks overall with 42. The secondary, despite trading for Okudah, didn’t see significant improvement, making his return doubtful.
