The Atlanta Falcons possess a well-rounded roster showcasing talent on both offense and defense. However, their challenges at the crucial quarterback position significantly hindered their overall performance during the recent season.
Despite having better alternatives available, the Falcons opted to evaluate second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder, whose struggles throughout the season proved detrimental to the team on multiple occasions. The backup, Taylor Heinicke, also failed to impress when called upon.
Looking ahead to the offseason, it is highly likely that the Falcons will acquire a new quarterback to lead the offense. ESPN goes a step further by suggesting the addition of not just one, but two quarterbacks. The first candidate linked with the Falcons is Russell Wilson from the Denver Broncos. Wilson’s anticipated departure from the Broncos, following a late-season benching, makes him a probable target for the Falcons. ESPN envisions a three-year, $36 million deal for Wilson, with $20 million guaranteed in the front-loaded contract.
The Falcons’ decision-makers, Arthur Blank and Rich McKay, expressed a strong desire to win with the current roster. Wilson, with his extensive experience, is seen as the best available option. The team’s offensive playmakers, including Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, are expected to complement Wilson, and the contract terms allow for a relatively smooth separation if the partnership doesn’t succeed.
Despite Wilson’s challenging tenure in Denver, the Falcons believe that with a talented supporting cast, he has the potential to revive his performance.
The second quarterback predicted by ESPN to join the Falcons is Bo Nix from Oregon, selected at No. 74 overall in the draft. ESPN sees this as a value pick for the Falcons, offering an opportunity to reshape their quarterback room under the new coaching staff. With Wilson as the established starter, Nix can be developed over time. Nix’s consistent improvement in his collegiate career, highlighted by a 77% completion rate, 45 touchdowns, and only three interceptions in the most recent season, makes him a promising choice. ESPN envisions a competition between Nix and Desmond Ridder for the backup position.
Nix, who finished third in Heisman Trophy voting, saw significant success after transferring to Oregon in 2022, posting impressive passing numbers and showcasing a dual-threat ability with his rushing touchdowns.
If the Falcons follow ESPN’s forecast and everything aligns, the quarterback position could be solidified for the foreseeable future with the duo of Wilson and Nix.
