Falcons eye veteran pass rushers as Walker and Pearce face season setbacks
Atlanta lost edge rusher Jalon Walker to an ACL tear and may miss James Pearce Jr., prompting the team to explore veteran free agents for the position.
During a recent training camp session, Atlanta’s edge rusher Jalon Walker tore his ACL, ending his season and leaving a void on the defensive line. The team also anticipates a lengthy suspension for James Pearce Jr., which could further deplete the edge unit. Management has reportedly been searching for pass-rushing reinforcement even before Walker’s injury, according to league reports.
Among the names being considered are Leonard Floyd, who played a limited role for Atlanta last year but could see increased snaps; Joey Bosa, a veteran Pro Bowler who posted solid numbers with Buffalo last season; and Yetur Gross-Matos, a former second-round pick with experience at Carolina and San Francisco. Each candidate offers a different blend of experience and potential impact for the Falcons’ struggling front seven.
Why it matters
The Falcons need to fill key defensive gaps to remain competitive this season.
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