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Atlanta Falcons: Three bargain free agents to target

By Freddie Boston

Dec 13, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; Detroit Lions cornerback Nevin Lawson (24) tackles St. Louis Rams tight end Jared Cook (89) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; Detroit Lions cornerback Nevin Lawson (24) tackles St. Louis Rams tight end Jared Cook (89) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 3, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) fumbles the ball as Cleveland Browns inside linebacker Karlos Dansby (56) makes the hit during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) fumbles the ball as Cleveland Browns inside linebacker Karlos Dansby (56) makes the hit during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

ILB Karlos Dansby

Karlos Dansby isn’t a long-term answer at linebacker, but the 34-year-old proved he can still play in 2015. Dansby was recently released by the Cleveland Browns, but has plenty left in the tank for a team willing to sign him.

Dansby left a lot to be desired against the run last term, but he was outstanding in coverage. What are the Falcons desperate for? A coverage linebacker. Among inside linebackers, Pro Football Focus ranked Dansby third in coverage.

Would signing him mean Atlanta wouldn’t need to draft a linebacker? No — but Dansby would offer depth and would at least give some immediate relief at the position. Hanging with tight ends and running backs in coverage was virtually non-existent for Atlanta last term, and the veteran would help change that right away.

Last season, Dansby led the Browns in tackles with 108, defended six passes, made three interceptions, two forced fumbles and scored two touchdowns. He did admit he wants to play for a Super Bowl contender, but Matt Forte echoed these words before landing at the Jets, so there’s hope in the world.

None of these free agents would take Atlanta over the top, but they could play important roles and add depth to key positions.

Next: Five Falcons who could see expanded roles in 2016

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