Strong safety Lawyer Milloy will turn thirty-four this season and free safety Chris Crocker may not be entirely suited for his position. After those two, there isn’t much help available. It’s clear that Atlanta must look to add depth and talent here—at both safety spots. The draft will be an ideal place to find that help since the market doesn’t appear to be deep in this area.
The Falcons lost defensive end Patrick Kerney to free agency and, when healthy, he was a fairly productive player in Atlanta. John Abraham holds down one end position, and the 2006 offseason acquisition has paid huge dividends when he’s been on the field. However, the former Jet has a history of injuries that has to concern the Falcons. Kerney’s departure and Abraham’s injury make the position one of considerable need—one that could be looked at in the first round during the draft.
The Falcons will need to plug holes on the offensive line since left tackle Wayne Gandy is now thirty-six and the guard spots and center spot can be upgraded or have youth added. There is some depth on the line, so it is unlikely that the team will spend an early draft pick on a lineman.
Discuss team needs on the Atlanta Falcons forum.