The Atlanta Falcons have primarily wrapped up free agency along with the NFL Draft, but with plenty of salary cap space left the team is eyeing another possible upgrade before starting to finalize the roster. The Falcons focused on defense in the draft and in free agency which leaves the offensive line needing another body or two. Atlanta is preparing to look at several options including La'el Collins.
According to ESPN's Vaughn McClure, the Falcons are aiming to bolster their offensive line before the next round of mini camps begin. McClure writes that on that list is Joe Barksdale, a free agent tackle, and Collins the controversial draft pick who eventually did not get selected over the weekend. McClure reports that the Falcons are waiting to see what happens with Collins and the investigation with his ex-girlfriend's death before they make a move, but Collins could be in the picture sooner rather than later.
Several teams are preparing to make pitches to Collins in the coming days. According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins are interested while the Carolina Panthers are looking to talk to him as well. The Falcons will have to make a solid offer if they want to win the rookie over.
Atlanta needs depth on the offensive line. Last season they struggled with injuries as four starters are currently nursing issues this offseason issues. At one point they were forced to put tight end Levine Toilolo on the line due to injuries. Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan wants players better suited for zone blocking while the run game will become a priority. Getting another lineman for that effort will help. General manager Thomas Dimitroff hinted that if the Collins' issues smooth out, the Falcons will be interested.
"I think when you look at any of the players that are up there that have talent, you consider [them]," Dimitroff said, via ESPN.com. "I would prefer not to go into the specifics of our discussion. Suffice to say, there's no question that we always look and consider those players, and always try to determine whether they are right for our system or not. We obviously didn't bring [Collins] in here right now. I'll be interested to track that. I just think everyone in the league is going to be interested to track how that all plays out."
The Falcons upgraded their ground game with Tevin Coleman. He along with Devonta Freeman and Antone Smith will get every opportunity to be successful in 2015. However, if the offensive line struggles once again like they did the last few seasons, the ground game along with Matt Ryan will have a long season ahead of them.