The Falcons released cornerback Casey Hayward on Friday, just one year after signing the veteran to a two-year contract. The move saves Atlanta $5 million in salary cap space, leaving the team with just under $14 million for 2023.
Hayward’s release wasn’t a total surprise based on the Falcons’ recent additions. The team traded for former No. 3 pick Jeff Okudah, who was likely to start opposite A.J. Terrell next season. The 33-year-old Hayward appeared in six games last year before suffering a torn pectoral muscle.
Falcons fans on Twitter are convinced the team will draft a cornerback with the No. 8 pick now that Hayward has been released.