Report: DE Robert Quinn metaphorically flipped a coin to decide whether to join the Bears or Falcons

Update: Apparently this was a metaphorical meaning, in that Robert Quinn did not actually flip a physical coin while deciding between the Bears and Falcons. The initial beat reporters on the call misunderstood the reference.

After being mercifully allowed to stay with the Atlanta Falcons, following back-to-back 7-9 seasons, the Falcons staff knew they had to finally address the lack of pass rush that has plagued the team for years.

One of the ways to upgrade along the defensive line was signing a top-flight pass rusher in free agency, and it appears Robert Quinn was a priority. The 29-year old Quinn is coming off a 2019 season with the Dallas Cowboys where he recorded 11.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. Last season wasn’t a one-hit wonder, as earlier in his career, Quinn was highly sought after due to his production, with 41 combined sacks for the Los Angeles Rams from 2012-2014.

He became available this offseason and the Falcons reportedly attempted to sign Quinn, along with the Chicago Bears. Quinn apparently was unsure where to ultimately sign and play for the next few years, so what did he do? He flipped a coin. Metaphorically, we guess, now that that has been clarified.

As you know by now, the Falcons ultimately lost the metaphorical coin toss as Quinn signed a five-year, $70 million deal with the Bears.

Although it would have been nice to have a pass rusher of Quinn’s caliber, take solace in knowing the Falcons ended up with someone who actually wanted to be here, in Dante Fowler, Jr. Fowler is coming off his best season in the NFL and seems thrilled to be playing for Dan Quinn, and while he doesn’t have the same track record, he’s younger and could still have great years ahead. He totaled 11.5 sacks, 16 QB hits, 49 QB hurries, 16 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and 34 defensive stops in 2019 with the Los Angeles Rams.