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Grading the Atlanta Falcons major offseason moves this year

By Grayson Freestone

Dec 26, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) runs against the Detroit Lions during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) runs against the Detroit Lions during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Falcons
May 26, 2022; Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Marcus Mariota (1) shown on the field at Falcons OTA at the Falcons Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

There has been no shortage of action for the Atlanta Falcons this offseason

This has been one of the most chaotic offseasons the Atlanta Falcons have had in a while. From totally reworking their wide receiver room, to making a big play for a top-tier quarterback, to having a draft that will hopefully open a new era for the team, it has been insane.

Obviously, it has been highlighted by the pursuit of Deshaun Watson and the ripple effect after the fact. Not landing him ended up costing the Falcons, but it also has given them the chance to restart, something that was probably the best option for the long run.

Not having Matt Ryan is going to hurt until the team can nail down who will be the franchise quarterback for the foreseeable future, perhaps that could come from a rejuvenated Marcus Mariota or the rookie Desmond Ridder. It is way too early to tell, but expect a bumpy ride for a couple years.

Losing Calvin Ridley to the suspension was huge even if he was not going to be a Falcon in 2022 as there have been rumors the team had a deal in place with the Eagles. It would have likely given Atlanta an extra first-round pick that would have been valuable.

So, here are the grades for all of the significant moves the Atlanta Falcons have made this year: