Breaking News: In the 2025 offseason, the Atlanta Falcons should let go of 11 free agents. Read More

As the 2025 NFL offseason approaches, the Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for a crucial period in their team’s rebuilding process. The front office must make tough decisions regarding several key players whose contracts are expiring, with some soon-to-be free agents possibly no longer in the team’s long-term plans. Here are 11 players the Falcons should consider parting ways with in order to free up salary cap space and redirect their focus on strengthening the roster.

RB Cordarrelle Paterson

Patterson has been a dynamic playmaker, but at 33 years old, his best days may be behind him. The Falcons could look to younger, cheaper options in the backfield, especially with rookie talent like Bijan Robinson developing into a star.

WR Mack Hollins

Though Hollins provided depth at wide receiver, his inconsistent production and limited upside may make him expendable as the Falcons look to add a more reliable target opposite Drake London.

TE Jonnu Smith

Smith’s acquisition was supposed to bolster the tight end position, but his impact has been underwhelming. Atlanta can likely find a more efficient player at a lower cost.

OL Elijah Wilkinson

Wilkinson has been a solid rotational piece along the offensive line but hasn’t shown enough to warrant a long-term deal. The Falcons could use his spot for a younger, higher-upside lineman.

CB Mike Hughes

Hughes has been inconsistent in the secondary, and with Atlanta’s defense trending upward, they might opt to invest in a more dependable cornerback.

DE Calais Campbell

Though Campbell has been a strong veteran presence on the defensive line, he’s nearing the end of his career and may no longer fit into the Falcons’ long-term plans as they focus on building for the future.

LB Rashaan Evans

Evans was brought in to stabilize the linebacker corps, but his play has been average at best. The Falcons might look for younger options at this position.

CB Casey Hayward

Another veteran in the secondary, Hayward’s injuries have limited his impact, and the Falcons would benefit more from developing younger talent at cornerback.

DL David Onyemata

Though he’s contributed on the defensive line, Onyemata hasn’t been a standout performer. The Falcons could use the cap space to bring in a more explosive player.

K Younghoe Koo

Although Koo has been one of the most reliable kickers in the NFL, he may command too high of a price for a specialist. A more affordable kicker could be found in free agency.

QB Taylor Heinicke

Heinicke is a reliable backup, but with Desmond Ridder emerging as the starting quarterback, Heinicke’s contract might be better used elsewhere.

By parting ways with these players, the Atlanta Falcons would free up cap space to invest in younger, more promising talent. The team is on the rise, but the 2025 offseason is crucial in ensuring they continue to build toward sustained success.