The Falcons Nickel Cornerback Battle Should Be A Great One

The Atlanta Falcons come into 2014 with questions across the roster, but some of those questions come from who will win legitimate competitions, which is a better deal than in years past.

One of the most intriguing competitions is nickel cornerback. The Falcons have Josh Wilson, Javier Arenas, Robert McClain and Ricardo Allen all competing for the gig, and while Allen in particular doesn't have a great chance, there should be a legitimate battle here.

McClain, of course, is the incumbent, having spent the better part of the last two seasons in the nickel role with the Falcons. He'll have a fast track to the job because of his familiarity with the defense, but there's no guarantee after he had a mediocre year in 2013.

Arenas is a former Chief with special teams value, but he's shown flashes of the second round talent that so intrigued Kansas City. He's still just 26 years old and is assured of a fair shake with Scott Pioli undoubtedly driving his signing.

Wilson's a savvy veteran who isn't ideally suited for a nickel role but could stick around. Allen's an athletic rookie cornerback who probably could use a year of seasoning, but I do love his longterm upside. I won't rule either out, but obviously Arenas and McClain have to be considered the early favorites.

How do you think this one will shake out?