3 Reasons the Atlanta Falcons re-signing Carter was the right decision

By Nick Halden | Mar 8, 2023

Sep 18, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker Lorenzo Carter (9) scores a touchdown on a blocked punt by linebacker Troy Andersen (44) against Los Angeles Rams punter Riley Dixon (11) during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 17, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive line coach Ryan Nielsen during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Give Ryan Nielsen a chance to work with Carter

With all the speculation at the quarterback position for the Falcons, the additions of Nielsen and Jerry Gray are being underrated. Dean Pees is a proven coordinator who has accomplished a lot in his career, however, his time with Atlanta was full of frustrating playcalling and an inability to rush the passer.

Giving Carter another season with the Falcons gives him the chance to work with Nielsen who has spent the bulk of his career helping generate an impressive pass rush. Nielsen isn’t suddenly going to turn Carter into a star pass rusher but there is reason to believe he can give the edge rusher a far better chance to win consistently.

Considering Atlanta’s issues over the past two seasons in generating a pass rush and stopping the run it would be shocking not to see the team make a number of moves at edge and on the inside as Nielsen attempts to put his stamp on the defense. Carter made an impact under Pees, and with Nielsen, Carter will take another step forward.

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