Should The Falcons Re-sign Thomas DeCoud?

Oct 20, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) shown on the field prior to the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

While former Falcon Thomas DeCoud never really played like most fans expected of him, he could be a dark horse candidate to once again occupy the team’s free safety position.

The Falcons must get a pass rusher in this draft, and also have needs at offensive tackle, tight end, and running back as well.  Drafting a safety, while it may be an upgrade, will keep the Falcons from filling other positions with top ranked prospects.  Thomas Dimitroff could bring back DeCoud at a cheap price, which isn’t that bad of an idea considering he already knows the defense, and thrived in it during the 2012 season.

In this article by Vaughn McClure, Moore said the following of DeCoud

"He put the work in. He came in on Tuesdays to catch balls. During tackling technique during practice, he was the first up saying, ‘Let me get an extra few reps.’ People don’t know that. And for that type of criticism to come up … I just wish him the best of luck and hope he bounces back, which I know he will."

Moore knows better than any of us what DeCoud’s work ethic was like, and clearly believes he can turn it into production.  Chris Clemons from Miami is the best available option in Free Agency, and there’s plenty of talented players in the 2014 Draft, but none come with the charisma and familiarity that DeCoud had with the rest of the Falcons roster.

I believe the Falcons should make a move for Clemons, but I won’t rule out DeCoud as an option.