Who is the top WR free agent target for the Atlanta Falcons?
The Atlanta Falcons had the 16th ranked passing offense in 2021. It’s clear that they need to improve their passing offense in a conference that features Aaron Rodgers, Matthew Stafford, Kyler Murray, and Dak Prescott.
I actually believe Matt Ryan played well given the lack of talent he was supplied with it. Sure, Kyle Pitts was a fine rookie and potential All-Pro player at the TE position (1,026 yards in 2021). Nonetheless, the Falcons were aching at wideout with Julio Jones in Tennessee and Calvin Ridley leaving via mental health issues. Their top WR in 2021 was Russell Gage (770, 4) and he’s actually a soon-to-be free agent. Their top RB (and common WR) Cordarralle Patterson is also a FA this offseason.
It’s clear that the Falcons need to rebuild their WR group this offseason. With that said, who could they look ink in free agency? Well, here are a few profiles that would make a ton of sense.
T.Y. Hilton
T.Y. Hilton and Matt Ryan can look to finish their aging careers together on a high note. Hilton, Pitts, and potentially Patterson would be an exciting trio of weapons for Ryan. Hilton had down season with Carson Wentz (331, 3) in 10 games, but he ousted 762 yards and 5 touchdowns in 2020. I feel like Hilton would be a great value pickup and x-factor for the Falcons team that plays in a lot of tight games.
Jakobi Meyers
I expect Jakobi Meyers to be targeted by the Las Vegas Raiders and Josh McDaniels if he doesn’t re-sign with the Patriots. Although, he would be a great, young, speed-demon with the Falcons across from Pitts. Meyers is coming off a season where he ousted an impressive 866 yards with Mac Jones. He is also a mere 25 years old. He might like the idea of playing next to Pitts and dominating for many years to come with the Falcons.
Evan Engram
I may be cheating the system by adding TE Evan Engram to this list, but he is essentially an imposing slot WR. Engram, who runs a 4.42 40 yard dash, would be a very exciting complement to Pitts in the Falcons offense. It’s clear that Arthur Smith isn’t scared to be creative, as Patterson plays RB/WR, and Pitts plays TE/WR. I’d love to see Matt Ryan have another deep-threat TE and a playmaker that can help him be more efficient in the red zone.
