Report: Atlanta Falcons have been in "constant contact" with free agent linebacker O'Brien Schofield

The Atlanta Falcons have totally overhauled their linebacker corps this offseason. Through free agency and the draft, it looks remarkably different today than it looked a year ago. That said, noticeably absent is arguably the Falcons' best linebacker from 2015: O'Brien Schofield.

Schofield was brought aboard last offseason because he and head coach Dan Quinn had a certain familiarity. That translated into a one-year, prove it deal. Lucky for us, Schofield proved to be a valuable player. Unfortunately, in the front office's opinion, he was not valuable enough to substantially increase his salary. To date Schofield's representatives and the Falcons haven't been able to work out a deal. That said, they've apparently remained in touch.

Schofield, who was offered a contract early in the free-agency process but never agreed to terms, has been in constant contact with Falcons coach Dan Quinn while awaiting the best opportunity. Schofield said he has options but is looking for the ideal fit at the right price. He made $1.7 million on a one-year contract last season.

This is good news. It means that whatever conversations Schofield's representatives have had with the team haven't left too bad a taste in his mouth. The Falcons have the cap space and a roster spot, so bringing back Schofield makes a lot of sense. For his part, Schofield has apparently stayed in great shape. Only time will tell whether this is a real possibility, but it sure sounds like one.

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