The Atlanta Falcons haven’t been the most active team in free agency thus far, but the moves that they did make could propel them to the top of their division. Going into the signing period, the team needed to address the quarterback position above all the rest.
Atlanta was so aggressive in pursuing free agent Kirk Cousins that the NFL is currently investigating the team for tampering. All offseason, we heard the Falcons were likely to pursue Cousins, Justin Fields, or one of the many quarterbacks in this year’s draft class.
Walking away with Cousins sets the team up for success next season, and signing wide receiver Darnell Mooney allows the Falcons to take the best player available with the eighth overall pick.
While Mooney was somewhat underutilized in Chicago, he adds some much-needed speed on the outside. Atlanta also sent quarterback Desmond Ridder to Arizona in exchange for slot receiver Rondale Moore.
Both receivers complement the team’s existing talent and should help the offense become a more well-rounded unit. The defense still needs some work, especially at the cornerback and edge-rusher positions.
The Falcons were already the betting favorite to win the NFC South in 2024 before signing Cousins, but their recent moves should be enough to put them over the top in head coach Raheem Morris’ first season.
