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3 Veterans the Atlanta could sign after the draft

By Nick Halden

Sep 19, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks (96) reacts after sacking Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (not pictured) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks (96) reacts after sacking Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (not pictured) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 20, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks (96) reacts after sacking Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (not pictured) during the second half at Soldier Field. The Minnesota Vikings won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks (96) reacts after sacking Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (not pictured) during the second half at Soldier Field. The Minnesota Vikings won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Akiem Hicks

Regardless of whether or not they find a defensive lineman or pass rusher in the draft Hicks is a great fit for the Falcons. There is the obvious conection of former Chicago Bears GM Ryan Pace now working in the Atlanta front office. There is also the fact that it is very obvious Grady Jarrett needs a lot more help on the inside helping defend the run and rush the passer. Akiem Hicks will be a help with both of these problems and give Atlanta a solid veteran they could move on from easily if needed.

It seems likely at this point in his career Hicks could be signed to a two-year deal being paid $4-6-million per season. A reasonable number for an impact player who would help the Atlanta defense take a huge step in the right direction. As much as Atlanta fans would love to see the Falcons land Jordan Davis in the draft due to draft positioning it isn’t going to happen. Hicks is the next best answer considering the limited options remaining in free agency.

Hicks has 40.5-career sacks, an impressive number for an interior lineman speaking to how disruptive and impactful Hicks has been throughout his career.

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