One major problem for the Atlanta Falcons still remains: getting to the quarterback. After failing to acquire a pass rusher ahead of the trade deadline, the Falcons desperately need help next season. They surrendered a 2025 third round pick to the New England Patriots for Matthew Judon just before the start of the season, but he’s basically been a non-factor thus far. Judon was expected to rejuvenate a dead Atlanta pass rush, but he’s just continued their streak of being deceased. The Falcons have the least amount of sacks in the league with 10, as Judon actually leads the team with 2.5 along with Grady Jarrett. The Falcons require more pass-rushing support than any other team in the NFL. They’ve only recorded 10 sacks as a team in 11 games, and no single defender has recorded more than 2.5 sacks this season. Signing a top pass-rusher, however, will be challenging. Atlanta is expected to exceed the effective cap space limit by $8.6 million. However, the Falcons may be able to lure Chase Young away from the rival New Orleans Saints. The 2020 first-round selection signed a one-year “prove-it” contract with New Orleans in the offseason and has performed admirably. So far, he has 3.5 sacks and 19 quarterback pressures. Chase won’t completely solve their pass rush woes, but it would be a wise move for a struggling Atlanta defense looking for answers in this key area.
Leave a Reply