The Atlanta Falcons have one of the best wide receiving tandems in the league, but last year proved to not be enough for season-long success. Injuries hit hard and quarterback Matt Ryan proved he can only do so much with the limited weapons he had. While Julio Jones and Roddy White are expected to return fully healthy in 2014, depth is still an issue and the Falcons could make one more free agent signing before OTAs kick off at the end of the month.
The Falcoholic.com is reporting that the Atlanta Falcons are poised to take a wide receiver in free agency once OTAs start. Head coach Mike Smith spoke to the media during rookie minicamp and noted that Jones was well ahead of his recovery schedule following surgery on his injured foot and was expected to be on the field Week 1. However, he will be severely limited during OTAs and training camp, leaving a hole on the field.
The Falcons would be wise to sign one more body to the roster even when Jones is at full strength on the field. They have White and 2013's leading receiver, Harry Douglas, returning, but they lost Tony Gonzalez and several other depth receivers to free agency and retirement. Outside of their top three receivers, Atlanta has Drew Davis, Darius Johnson and newly signed Devin Hester who will only be used in specific situations.
There are very few options remaining on the free agent market. The Oakland Raiders have officially signed Greg Little after the receiver was released by the Cleveland Browns. Miles Austin and Earl Bennett were picked up by the Browns following the pending suspension of leading receiver Josh Gordon. Arrelious Benn was re-signed by the Philadelphia Eagles. At this point, if the Falcons are looking to sign someone the only option is Santonio Holmes.
Holmes is coming off a disappointing season with the New York Jets following a Lisfranc injury. He was released due to salary cap issues and Atlanta could grab him for cheap. Holmes might not make the biggest difference on the field in the upcoming season, but he could be used for depth purposes if the veteran is willing to take a backseat role.
Atlanta did not draft a wide receiver to develop, opting to focus on defense instead. They did pick up a few undrafted prospects that could turn out to be strong candidates if the Holmes signing is not favored by the Falcons.
