The Falcons’ starting safety duo — Erik Harris and Duron Harmon — from this past season are set to hit free agency next week. Depending on how the Falcons feel about Richie Grant and Jaylinn Hawkins, they might be in the market for a proven veteran safety. In my mind, that would mean bringing back one of Harris and Harmon, but a higher-profile safety just became available.
In what was an evident cap casualty, the Commanders are parting ways with Landon Collins. He was under contract through the 2024 season, but he would’ve cost Washington $16.2 million against the cap. By releasing Collins, the Commanders save $6.6 million against the cap with $9.6 million in dead money.
The 29-year-old has spent the last few seasons with Washington after starting his career in New York with the Giants from 2015 to 2018. The former Alabama safety recorded 239 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, six sacks, and three interceptions in 35 games for Washington.
He’s certainly not the player he once was, but he’ll still garner plenty of interest on the free agent market. After receiving a massive six-year, $84 million contract back in 2019, Collins will test free agency again.
Collins is a total liability in coverage, but he made the switch to hybrid linebacker last season and really improved his play. The Falcons could use a hard-nosed safety to roam the intermediate as Erik Harris did for the Falcons last season. His ability to play in the box would give Dean Pees more flexibility with five defensive backs on the field.
Collins might price himself out of Atlanta, but a deal worth around $7 million APY should spark Terry Fontenot’s interest. He undoubtedly has some tread left on those tires.
Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon SportswireMore must-reads: