The Atlanta Falcons have 30 players who are set to become free agents when the new league year begins in March but only a handful are considered household names. Linebacker Matthew Judon and safety Ju

The Falcons were on the verge of making the playoffs last season. What do they need to get them over the hump?

Onyemata signed with the Falcons as a free agent in 2023. The veteran defensive lineman had a great first year under Ryan Nielsen but was slightly less effective this season. It would be hard to imagine the team cutting both defensive linemen without clear replacements. Rookies Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus played sparingly last season.

The Falcons have surrounded themselves with offensive skill position players since 2021. But PFF's mock simulator presents a different take.

It’s been five years since the Falcons last drafted a defensive player in the first round but that’s likely to change in 2025. With needs at cornerback, linebacker, safety and possibly defensive tackle, most of the top defensive prospects should be on the table for general manager Terry Fontenot.

And that familiarity may result in the Falcons landing one of the top defensive free agents in Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood. According to ESPN, the Falcons are the "best fit" for Sherwood, who's ranked as the 37th-best free agent available.

The Falcons have a lot to do this offseason. There are decisions to be made on Kirk Cousins’ future in Atlanta, re-signing Drew Dalman, possibly trading Kyle Pitts, and that doesn’t even include the draft or free agency.