John J. from Cleveland, Tennessee
I really don’t care about the rest of this season now that we are eliminated. Already looking ahead to 2026, and I can’t say I feel much hope about where things stand for next season, either. Just feels like we have so many holes to fill. Receiver is obviously one of them, so two-part question for you: Do you think we get a long-term deal done with Drake London this offseason? And what are some other areas of need that we need to get figured out?
I think you might as well try to get something inked with London. He will be playing on his fifth-year option next year. The door is wide open to make something work. Kyle Pitts is currently on his fifth-year option, but the two individuals before this season the Falcons had playing on their fifth-year option (Chris Lindstrom and A.J. Terrell) signed their extensions during their fifth years (Lindstrom right before that fifth year timed out and Terrell during training camp prior to the start of his fifth year).
I am trying to get a deal done with London sooner rather than later because he is not getting any cheaper. Timing-wise, I would pinpoint working to get something done after you get Kirk Cousins’ contract off the books. Cousins’ contract makes up roughly 19.2% of the salary cap in 2026 and 18.5% in 2027. If you can offset that percentage, it opens that up to be used elsewhere. An extension for London — I think — should be at the top of the list for things to use that money for.
Now, as for your second question, there are a few answers I have.
Defensively, you have to figure out what you want to do with Kaden Elliss. He is on the final year of his deal, and we all know what he has meant to this defense over the last couple of years. Can the Falcons bring him back on a deal that works for their cap? Or do they have to move on? If that is the case, he’s a difficult individual to replace.
Offensively, you have to think about retooling your wide receiver room, yes. You’re right there. You also have to start planning for the long-term health of your offensive line, particularly your tackles. Jake Matthews isn’t getting any younger. He’s an iron man, but you can’t rely on him forever. You have to start thinking about a day when you don’t have him, or Kaleb McGary for that matter, too. I’d say you also need to take a look at options at center.
If you let Kyle Pitts and Tyler Allgeier walk as free agents in the offseason, you also have to look at tight ends and running backs, too.
I could keep going, but that’s probably enough for you to chew on today.