With limited cap space, the Atlanta Falcons were forced to move on from six of last season’s starters, including their leading tackler, De’Vondre Campbell, and 2019 sack leader, Vic Beasley.
The team filled most of its needs in the draft, but could still use some depth at a few positions, including linebacker, corner and tight end. Let’s examine three low-risk, high-reward options that Atlanta could potentially trade for without giving up too much.
LB Haason Reddick – Cardinals
2019 Stats: 73 tackles (40 solo), 1 sack, 6 passes defended
Adored by scouts leading up the 2017 NFL Draft, Haason Reddick’s role never materialized in Arizona and it’s still unclear where he is best suited to play. The Cardinals run a 3-4 defense and played Reddick at inside linebacker last season. He may be a better fit as an outside linebacker in a 4-3 defense, or simply as a situational pass-rusher.
Reddick’s speed, athleticism and instincts coming out of Temple had scouts projecting him as rangy middle linebacker in the NFL. He played more of an outside LB/EDGE role in college and a return to a similar role in Atlanta could help him maximize his unique skill-set. Since Arizona declined Reddick’s fifth-year option and drafted Isaiah Simmons, the team is clearly not sold on him long term. In exchange for a late-round pick, Reddick may be worth taking a chance on during a contract year with a lot to prove.
Haason Reddick strips Beathard and Josh Bynes takes it all the way to the house. Cards by 9 with 4 minutes to go! #12Sports pic.twitter.com/8CR0WICD8Q
— Cam La Fontaine (@LaFontaineCam) October 7, 2018