Free agency is still roughly a week away, but Atlanta Falcons rumors are already dominating the airwaves. While the Falcons would love to say they’ll be able to draft a future franchise quarterback with their first-round selection, they’re not the only desperate team searching for a replacement.
So far, this has led to a lot of smoke pointing to Kirk Cousins signing with the Falcons. Since Cousins has familial ties, in addition to the Falcons boasting a strong group of skill position players, and having plenty of cap space, Atlanta figures to be a fine landing spot for the Vikings QB. Yet, for some of those same reasons, the Falcons could make sense for a lot of quarterbacks this offseason.
However, there’s one specific player that could quickly become the Falcons’ top target in free agency if Cousins re-signs in Minnesota.
Atlanta Falcons could quickly pivot to Baker Mayfield
The Atlanta Falcons’ priority list probably starts with trying to trade up high enough to draft a quarterback in the top-five to solve their QB vacancy for the foreseeable future. Yet, general manager Terry Fontenot likely already has a strong idea of the potential cost to move up from No. 8. It’s possible the Falcons have already determined that’s a cost not worth paying.
So then the alternative becomes finding a QB who can help this roster win now, like the aforementioned Kirk Cousins. However, the Vikings are still trying to work out an extension with their Pro Bowl QB too.
If a top rookie QB isn’t an option, and Cousins is no longer on the table either, then what?
Another option could be to go all in on signing Baker Mayfield from their division rival Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It’s a scenario The Athletic’s Dianna Russini recently outlined.
“If the Falcons miss on Cousins, they may look to Baker Mayfield, if Tampa can’t reach an agreement with him after his outstanding season. When I last checked in with sources, Mayfield and the Bucs were working hard to strike a deal, especially after they locked up WR Mike Evans.”
Dianna Russini on Atlanta Falcons pursuing Baker Mayfield
Yet, as Russini mentions, the Bucs are also eager to re-sign their starting quarterback too. Meaning, barring an unexpected change, the Falcons might not get either of their perceived top two free agency targets. However, there are several other options out there in free agency.
