The Atlanta Falcons have pretty much squashed the thought that the team will make any more roster additions for the time being. The main priority leading up to camp is getting quarterback Matt Ryan signed to a favorable contract extension. This will free up cap space and allow the Falcons to have some financial flexibility. Assuming that Atlanta meets their goal of signing Ryan after July 4, they will likely sign at least one more free agent. With head coach Mike Smith concerned with depth at the defensive and offensive lines, John Abraham's name continues to come into the mix.
Abraham has not had an easy time with free agency. The defensive end is realizing the hard way that teams are not as inclined to sing a veteran to big money. After Dwight Freeney signed with the San Diego Chargers, the market has been quiet for players like Abraham. The Falcons made a decision to cut Abraham very quickly and could still bring him back after the extension is signed for Ryan.
The Falcons are still looking at adding one more defensive end that would be a primary pass rusher for the team. After signing Osi Umenyiora in the offseason, the team still needs one more body to make a big impact. The Umenyiora signing was key, but the line would look more impressive if Abraham was still on it as well.
The Falcons have been attempting to sign Richard Seymour to a deal to play the role that Abraham once had, but the two sides have yet to be able to come to a contract agreement. It is likely because the Falcons do not have the cap space. However, Seymour and Abraham are essentially the same player. Some might argue that Abraham is better, but both have 13 to 14 years of experience in the league and have a primary role of rushing the quarterback.
If Atlanta cannot get Seymour to a contract, Abraham is the best option. The issue is money. Abraham wants a multi-year deal, similar to the one Freeney signed. No team has been willing to give him any kind of money close to what he is demanding. Signing Abraham over Seymour feels like a no-brainer. He is familiar with the organization and the system Atlanta runs. Both Seymour and Abraham reside in the Atlanta area, so when Ryan gets his extension one or the other will be present at training camp.
