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Falcons One Of Several Teams Over Salary Cap After NFL Increase

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Josh Petry | Last updated Feb 19, 2025 9:11 PM ET

The Atlanta Falcons salary cap situation for the offseason has improved, but they're one of five teams that are still over it.

The New Orleans Saints, Cleveland Browns, Buffalo Bills and the Seattle Seahawks join Atlanta. The NFL informed teams Wednesday that the salary cap will be set between $277.5 and $281.5 million, according to ESPN. Last year, the cap was set at $255.4 million, and the cap has increased by over $53 million in the past two offseasons.

The Falcons only hold five picks in this year's NFL draft, so the money for contracts distributed between draft picks that make the team won't be too much of a burden to handle.

Along with some players who may be released, Atlanta could have around $30 million to help build the roster through free agency. The team is in a better position now than before the increase. The team could also restructure/release certain contracts, such as those of defensive tackle Grady Jarrett and offensive tackles Jake Matthews and Kaleb McGary.

Atlanta could use the extra cash to strengthen the defensive side of the football, where all aspects need to be bolstered. The Falcons are looking to add someone on the opposite side of the field from A.J. Terrell, along with an edge rusher or two, to name a few needs.

The Falcons will likely ride with what they have skill player-wise on the offensive side of the football. The team believes that they have enough firepower on that side to compete now. However, the Kyle Pitts situation must be handled with a release or a stud tight end in the draft.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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