2. The second-highest cap hit in 2022 belongs to Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Grady Jarrett at $23.8-million
Much like Deion Jones, it is hard to see Atlanta moving on from Jarrett when the defense is so talent-starved and has so few options in free agency. Staying tied to Jarrett for another year and attempting to build the defense via the draft seems to be the move.
Trading Jarrett would save the Falcons nearly $16-million in cap space but at what cost? While the rest of the defensive line has been manhandled this season Jarrett has been a lone bright spot. Dealing with double teams or getting around the guard to make a tackle in the backfield.
If you put Jarrett with competent pass rushers he would have a monster of a season. Taking the chance on adding those pass rushers and waiting at least one more season before deciding to move on is the move for Atlanta.
There are few big contracts Atlanta cannot get out of in 2023 leaving them with a myriad of options two seasons from now. Sticking with their veterans for another season and attempting to build around them is the move for an Atlanta Falcons team that cannot afford to move off of what little talent they have defensively.