As the Atlanta Falcons gear up for the upcoming season, the team’s front office, led by general manager Terry Fontenot and new head coach Raheem Morris, is on a mission to enhance the quarterback position. This offseason, the Falcons have made it clear that they are exploring various avenues to secure a top-tier quarterback, whether it be through the draft, free agency, or a potential trade. The NFL combine in Indianapolis marks the starting point for the team’s evaluation process, where draft-eligible quarterbacks will showcase their skills and undergo interviews. Agents representing these quarterbacks, as well as free agents, are expected to be present, creating a perfect opportunity for potential deals to materialize.
During his introductory news conference, Coach Morris emphasized the importance of having quarterbacks who are “elite processors” capable of making quick decisions. On the other hand, the new offensive coordinator, Zac Robinson, highlighted the significance of having a competitive player who can deliver accurate throws with the right pace and touch. While open to both pocket passers and mobile quarterbacks, Robinson’s coaching experience with the Los Angeles Rams suggests a preference for quarterbacks with a pocket-first style, similar to Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford. The Falcons currently have two quarterbacks under contract for 2024 – Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke – with the latter’s release potentially saving the team $7 million in cap space.
One name that frequently surfaces in discussions about the Falcons’ quarterback situation is Justin Fields, the Chicago Bears quarterback who honed his skills in the metro Atlanta area. Fields’ performance last season, although showing promise with improvements in completion percentage, still raised concerns about his ball security with frequent fumbles. Should the team opt to part ways with Ridder, a solid quarterback prospect known for his accuracy and playmaking abilities, they could potentially explore Fields as a viable option. However, Fields’ compatibility with the Falcons’ offensive scheme remains a point of consideration given his performance metrics in comparison to other quarterbacks.
As the Falcons evaluate their options for upgrading the quarterback position, draft prospects like USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, and LSU’s Jayden Daniels emerge as top contenders likely to be selected before Atlanta’s turn in the draft. While a trade-up scenario is plausible if the team is deeply impressed by a quarterback prospect, Fontenot’s history of avoiding first-round trades adds an element of uncertainty to the team’s draft strategy. On the other hand, free agent quarterbacks like Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield, and Russell Wilson present intriguing possibilities, each bringing a unique set of skills and experiences to the table. The team must carefully weigh factors such as age, performance statistics, and long-term viability when considering these seasoned quarterbacks as potential additions to the roster.
With a pivotal decision looming over the quarterback position, the Atlanta Falcons face a critical juncture in their quest for a franchise signal-caller. As the team navigates the intricacies of the draft, free agency, and potential trades, the collective vision of Coach Morris, offensive coordinator Robinson, and the quarterback coach, T.J. Yates, will play a defining role in shaping the team’s future. Finding the right balance between talent, fit, and long-term potential is essential as the Falcons strive to elevate their quarterback position and solidify their standing in the competitive landscape of the NFL.