The market for defensive ends is not strong. With multiple veterans still on the market, teams are proving to be reluctant in signing players to big money. The Atlanta Falcons are in need of a pass rusher and have already taken a look at Dwight Freeney and Richard Seymour, they are now bringing in Osi Umenyiora for a visit. The Falcons are in the market for a veteran and with Brian Urlacher leaving the Bears, he could be the next player in for a visit.
Umenyiora took a physical for the Falcons on Wednesday and the team is reportedly interested in signing the defensive end who became a free agent with the Giants. This is Umenyiora's first official visit of the free agency period, so it seems unlikely that he would sign with the first team that shows interest, however defensive ends are not getting the deals this year and he would be smart to take was is offered quickly.
There is plenty of competition with defensive ends. John Abraham, Freeney and Urlacher are all in search of new teams. Umenyiora has been one of the best pass rushers since being in the league but his production has declined in the past two years. He only started four games in 2012, but has recorded 52 sacks from 2005 to 2010. As an aging player, he will not get a long-term contract with any team.
While the Falcons have also looked at Freeney, Urlacher could be another option for the team. He fits the mold of someone they could sign for the short-term contract that would be effective immediately. Urlacher has been hampered with injuries over the past few years but has still played a large role in the Bears' defense. He recorded 68 combined tackles in 2012, but did not have a single sack. Urlacher is reportedly seeking a deal of around $3.5 million which may be around what the Falcons are willing to pay.
Atlanta is expected sign a defensive end before the draft begins. They want a player that can stand and rush the quarterback effectively. After letting John Abraham go for more cap space, they want to sign a replacement that can give equally great numbers.
