Brian Urlacher is the biggest name out there on the free agent linebacker market after being unable to come to an agreement with the Chicago Bears, but linebacker Karlos Dansby could be one of the next players to sign after he was cut by the Miami Dolphins earlier this month.
According to Fox Sports Florida, Dansby has interest from a number of teams, including the New York Giants, Atlanta Falcons and the Baltimore Ravens. The Giants signed Dan Connor and brought back Keith Richards, so they may be out of the running, but the Falcons and Ravens still could be in play, as Baltimore lost both Paul Kruger and Dannell Ellerbe in free agency.
The report said: "Karlos Dansby's father, Samuel Dansby, told FOX Sports Florida teams in mix to sign his Miami-released son include Giants, Ravens, Falcons."
Dansby will be 32-years-old this season and although he is on the backside of his career, he could provide veteran leadership and solid depth at the position. The Falcons ranked 21st in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game, giving up over 120 yards on the ground. An addition like Dansby could help shore up the rush defense and team could also add free agent Dwight Freeney to make up for the release of defensive end John Abraham.
Dansby had 134 tackles last season with one sack and one forced fumble while playing in 16 games for the Dolphins. Dansby has been a steady performer through his career and he has barely missed any time for injury, playing in at least 14 games in every season he has played in the NFL. He missed two games in three seasons with the Dolphins and he has played in all 16 games in four of the past five seasons.
The Falcons are close to an agreement with free agent Osi Umenyiora and he could be signed in the coming week, according to ESPN.com. The Falcons are hoping the former Giant can replace John Abraham after a season of 43 tackles and six sacks in 2012. The defensive end won two Super Bowl trophies in New York and wanted a long-term deal, something the Giants did not have salary cap space for.
