4 free agents the Atlanta Falcons will assuredly offer contracts to

Jan 29, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates III (30) and defensive end Joseph Ossai (58) take the field against the Kansas City Chiefs prior to the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

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Aug 12, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (98) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Sheldon Rankins, DT, New York Jets

There is no doubt that the Atlanta Falcons need help on their defensive line. For years now, they have been embarrassing, but adding Sheldon Rankins to a group that already consists of Grady Jarrett and Ta’Quon Graham, would make them at least respectable, from the interior.

Not only would he be a great fit, but he also has a bunch of ties to the Falcons. Terry Fontenot was in the front office when the Saints selected Rankins in 2016, and then Ryan Nielsen was his posiitonal coach for four years. That checks a lot of boxes.

He has had some good seasons but has also struggled with injuries. If the team feels confident that he can stay healthy, then he will be a prime target.

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