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 Justin Simmons are arguably the most well-known of the team’s impending free agents. And while it’s certainly possible that both players return in 2025, it doesn’t seem likely given the state of Atlanta’s salary cap.
The Falcons may need to save their money for another key free agent. Center Drew Dalman has developed into a solid starter for this team and considering his age, he could be Atlanta’s top priority in free agency.
In ESPN’s latest feature breaking down the best team fits for the top 50 NFL free agents, Dalman was the only Falcons player ranked, coming in at No. 26. ESPN felt the Chicago Bears would be the best fit for Dalman:
I matched Trey Smith to the Bears, but this team can’t stop there this spring. Let’s also put Dalman — the top center in free agency — next to Smith. Dalman wins his assignments with movement and leverage to offset a smaller frame (6-3, 300 pounds). He’s a technician on the tape, best suited for the zone run game, and his pass block win rate of 95.1% ranked ninth among centers with at least 500 snaps (he missed time due to an ankle injury, though). — Matt Bowen, ESPN
It makes sense for Chicago to add a solid all-around center to help stabilize things around Caleb Williams. According to Over The Cap’s projections, the Bears have $62 million in cap space. That’s more than enough money to steal Dalman away with a contract Atlanta probably wouldn’t be able to match.
If the team loses Dalman in free agency, which is certainly a possibility, the focus should shift to re-signing reserve Ryan Neuzil. The veteran backup filled in admirably for Dalman last season and has spent several years developing around one of the NFL’s top offensive lines.
ESPN’s feature also named the Falcons as the best fit for New York Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood in free agency.