The Atlanta Falcons burned most of their cap space by signing Kirk Cousins in 2024 and only have a few million to spend on free agents this coming offseason. While there are ways to create more cap room, the team will need to do most of its shopping at the bargain bin.
With 30 players set to hit free agency in 2025, the Falcons must make some tough decisions over the next few months. Defensively, the team could lose several starters, including cornerback Mike Hughes, linebacker Lorenzo Carter and safety Justin Simmons.
Since the Falcons still need to hire a new defensive coordinator, we expect the defense to add some new faces. Pro Football Focus suggested one free agent for each team to target in free agency. Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis was PFF’s pick for Atlanta:
The Falcons have only $3 million in current cap space, but their cornerback room is in flux going into 2025. While A.J. Terrell will return, Mike Hughes and Dee Alford are both free agents. If Atlanta could afford a player like Kristian Fulton, it would be a big move. But in terms of cheaper yet effective options, Lewis should be front of mind.
The 29-year-old turned in a career season in 2024, generating a 79.0 PFF coverage grade. Among qualified slot cornerbacks, Lewis tied for 10th in yards per snap (0.98). Given his career inconsistencies, he probably won’t receive a lucrative deal, but he’d be a shrewd acquisition. — Bradley Locker, PFF
The Cowboys drafted Lewis in the third round of the 2017 NFL draft out of Michigan. After starting his career playing outside, the Cowboys moved him to the nickel spot in 2019. Lewis is a physical tackler who’s solid against the run.
His coverage has improved, but as PFF points out, he’s not likely to command a big contract in free agency. Lewis makes sense as a low-cost replacement for slot cornerback Dee Alford, who will be a free agent in March.
The draft is also an option for Atlanta, however, the team currently has just three picks. General manager Terry Fontenot suggested the Falcons could trade back to acquire more draft capital. The team is slated for the No. 15 overall pick in 2025.
Check out the Falcons’ full list of offensive and defensive free agents in 2025.