Free Agents That The Atlanta Falcons Should Pursue
By Jake Bennett
Sep 29, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Washington Redskins outside linebacker Brian Orakpo (98) reacts after recording a sack against the Oakland Raiders in the third quarter at O.co Coliseum. The Redskins defeated the Raiders 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
DE/OLB Brian Orakpo, Redskins
Many Falcons fans have been expressing their desire to draft Khalil Mack or Anthony Barr. However, both Mack and Barr are primarily 3-4 OLB’s, and would would find better fits on other teams. Also, the Falcons may want to move on from the 2-time Super Bowl winner Osi Umenyiora, who is currently 32 years old. There ins’t exactly much on the other side either.
Brian Orakpo possesses the build to not only put his hand in the dirt as a 4-3 DE, but also the speed and athleticism to play the 3-4 pass rusher that many fans covet. Coming out of Texas as a DE, Orakpo was an All-American and recipient of the Bronko Nagurski Trophy. He is a proven threat on the field, and would help the Falcons generate a pass rush that they have so long desired.