Rob Dadona Manager Of Coaching Operations | Atlanta Falcons Website
Rob Dadona Manager Of Coaching Operations | Atlanta Falcons Website
As the NFL's new league year approaches on March 12, the Atlanta Falcons face significant decisions regarding their salary cap and player contracts. The NFL announced a 2025 salary cap of $279.2 million, marking a $23.8 million increase from last year. This rise is consistent with post-COVID-19 trends, averaging an annual increase of $24.18 million since 2021.
The Falcons are currently $5.28 million over the cap, making them one of six teams in this position. However, General Manager Terry Fontenot expressed confidence in managing the situation, particularly concerning quarterback Kirk Cousins' contract. "We understand that it's not ideal to have a quarterback at that cap number," Fontenot stated regarding Cousins' $40 million cap hit as a backup to Michael Penix Jr.
Cousins' future with the team remains uncertain due to his no-trade clause and a pending $10 million roster bonus due on March 17. While releasing him would not provide any cap relief, trading him after June 1 could save his base salary of $27.5 million.
Another critical decision involves defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, who has no guaranteed money left on his contract expiring after the 2025 season. Cutting Jarrett before June 1 could save the Falcons $16.25 million against the cap, but both Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris emphasized Jarrett's value beyond financial considerations.
"Ultimately, we always have to do what's right for the Atlanta Falcons," said Fontenot about potential moves involving key players like Jarrett.
The team also faces decisions about other players such as Kaleb McGary and David Onyemata for possible cost savings but lacks immediate replacements for these positions.
Additionally, retaining starting center Drew Dalman is a priority for maintaining offensive line continuity after he started 40 games since being drafted in 2021 despite injury setbacks last season.
Fontenot's strategy focuses on keeping core players like Chris Lindstrom and A.J. Terrell through long-term extensions while navigating free agency challenges.
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