The Atlanta Falcons offseason is officially underway as roster changes are likely headed towards the team. With general manager Thomas Dimitroff's future up in the air, certain players could become salary-cap casualties in the coming weeks after the six-game losing streak ended Atlanta's season. Roddy White is aware that he is one of those players in question, but he told the media that fans should expect his return in 2016.
After a slow start to the season that included two games without a catch, White picked things back up and ended the year on a high note. That could speak volumes as to whether or not the veteran receiver gets to return in 2016 as he is hopeful he gets to play out the remaining time on his contract. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, White told the media following the loss to the Saints that he will be back in 2016. Nothing has been confirmed by owner Arthur Blank yet as the veteran is signed through the 2017 season with a $6 million cap hit next year. Having been with the franchise since his career began, White is hoping his words become true and he gets to stay put.
"I have no idea how next year's going to be," White said, via ESPN.com. "I have no idea. I'm just going to take it in and try to finish as strong as possible, get myself ready to go for next year. Whatever happens after that, happens. I plan on being a Falcon forever. That's what they told me. That's where my heart is. That's where my mind's at."
White also took time to endorse Matt Ryan for the future of the Falcons. The quarterback did not have the season many thought he would under new coordinator Kyle Shanahan. He struggled with the system as turnovers plagued him all year. Ryan has faced rumors of a trade or release while Blank made it clear the quarterback was staying up. That has Shanahan excited for 2016.
"I think we have accomplished some things this year, but we definitely didn't accomplish what we set out to do," Shanahan said, via ESPN.com. "And I've never been looking forward to an offseason so much to where I think we can improve in a lot of ways, and I know we're going to. And I really look forward to getting this started next year."
White and Ryan might be returning in 2016, but not every player will be so lucky. William Moore is expected to be a cap casualty after his forgettable season that ended with injuries yet again. Devin Hester and Jacob Tamme would be out as well with one year remaining on their contracts. The Falcons need to beef up their receiver corps and look to get younger around Julio Jones. Two aging veterans might not be needed if better options come along. Jonathan Babineaux and Kemal Ishmael will also be fighting for a return.
