Atlanta Falcons: Five positions that must be addressed in free agency

5. Wide receiver

At the wide receiver position, the Falcons have Julio Jones, one of the very best in the league. But outside of him, there isn’t a whole lot to write home about. Justin Hardy is entering his second season and has the potential to become a dangerous target in the slot, but Atlanta is desperately calling out for another threat on the outside.

What about the Panthers who have found success without any notable names at the position? When you have a quarterback as multi-talented as Cam Newton, you can get away with that. The Falcons can make their passing game the team’s strength by adding another dangerous weapon on the outside.

So why does it only make No. 5 on this list?

Well, receivers tend to be easier to find than other positions. It’s usually possible to find game-changers in the draft, and this isn’t always the case when looking for a pass rusher or offensive lineman. The Falcons will add a wide receiver at some point this offseason, of that there is no doubt, but it all depends on when they target one.

Atop the free agency pile currently is the Bears’ Alshon Jeffery, but will he be re-signed? That seems likely, considering how big of a player he is in Chicago. Other names include Travis Benjamin and Rishard Matthews, but at this stage it’s all speculation whether either will hit the market.

Next: No. 4