This is when the axe starts falling, chopping down names both big and small. With teams furiously trying to get under the cap or just cut dead weight, you can expect at least a few dozen players to hit the wire by 4 p.m. tomorrow.
Here's a list of players the Falcons could explore as rotation guys, backups or starters, though I'm not saying any are likely:
- DT Fred Robbins: Cut by the Rams, Robbins was Pro Football Focus' 18th-ranked defensive tackle in 2011 and is a pretty effective pass rusher on the interior. He could be an option if the Falcons don't get Kendall Langford. He is 34 years old, though.
- FS O.J. Atogwe: Oft-injured and coming off back-to-back disappointing seasons, his price tag might be low enough that he'd be willing to latch on with the Falcons in the James Sanders Memorial Role or as competition to Thomas DeCoud. A bit of a longshot, but if he came cheap, the dude can still play. You know, when he's healthy.
-
DE Dave Tollefson: A part-time pass rusher with five sacks, Tollefson would be an option if the Falcons elect to build out an elaborate defensive end rotation. He'll be cheap.
- C Scott Wells: A nice center who could certainly replace Todd McClure if the Falcons move on. He's extremely unlikely to be cheap, however, and that would seem to make him a poor fit. Talent-wise, he's probably the best center hitting the open market.
I'll add to this as the day goes on, should any interesting names be dropped from the roster. In the meantime, discuss who you think will be cut from the Falcons and what cut players they should chase from other teams.