The Atlanta Falcons are making major shifts to their roster as team leader and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, and offensive leader Drew Dalman have both signed with the Chicago Bears. Their departures leave key positions to fill on both sides of the ball.
Jarrett’s Impact and Move to Chicago: Since entering the league in 2015, Grady Jarrett has been an integral part of the Atlanta Falcons’ defense. The veteran defensive tackle has been a force to be reckoned with as he made a reputation for disrupting plays and being a vocal spokesperson for the Falcons defensive line. Grady returned from a torn ACL injury and played all 17 games this past 2024 season as he earned the title as one of the team leaders. The 32-year-old will now bring his talents to the windy city as Chicago looks to build pieces around their young playmaker Caleb Williams.
Dalman’s Consistency: Drew Dalman has been a very reliable piece of the Falcons offensive line. In four seasons, Dalman started 34 games as his elite pass protection and control of the line of scrimmage helped pave the way for Micheal Penix, Bijan Robinson, and Tyler Allgeier. The bears are adding a durable, smart, and consistent center that can help solidify the protection of Caleb Williams on the inside.
What’s Next? With two proven veterans gone, the Falcons will now need to address an already thin defensive line, and a now wide open center position. With the NFL Draft rapidly approaching, the Falcons have a surplus of picks that can fill the voids needed to ensure the teams success.
The Falcons lost two major leaders who helped shape the team the past couple of seasons, however, it also opens up opportunities for new talent to emerge as well. Grady Jarrett being cut has brought the Atlanta Falcons out of the cap penalty by saving us 16 million. This frees up moves for us to sign elite free agents who can boost the team in a positive direction.
Ryan Neuzil is an interesting name to keep an eye on as the possibility of him leading the line of scrimmage is a realistic possibility. On the other hand, Dalman was a fourth-round draft pick. With him being a diamond in the rough, it is very possible that the Falcons copy this recipe and potentially draft a young center such as Georgia Bulldog Jared Wilson. Either way, there is work to be done and time will reveal how the Falcons move forward.
Written By: @kalebchester
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