Matt Miller of the Bleacher Report mentions that a source informed him that the Falcons may try to lure free agent DE Michael Johnson back to Georgia.
Miller’s source added that Atlanta would be hoping for a “hometown discount” from Johnson given that’s he’s from Georgia.
There is no question that the Falcons will be in the market for defensive end help this offseason, despite signing DE Osi Umenyiora two-year deal worth $8.5 million that included $5 million guaranteed last year.
As of now, the Falcons are expected to have close to $6.8 million in cap space available this offseason, according to Overthecap.com.
Johnson, 26, was franchised by the Bengals last year, but recent reports have indicated that Cincinnati is unlikely to use the designation on him again in 2014. Johnson figures to be in high demand during free agency, even after he produced a disappointing 3.5 sacks for the Bengals defense this season.
Regardless, Johnson graded as the No. 4 overall 4-3 defensive end in 2013, according to Pro Football Focus.
It’s worth noting that the number of available defensive ends could work against Johnson this offseason as guys like: Greg Hardy, Lamarr Houston, Michael Bennett, Arthur Jones, Justin Tuck, Tyson Jackson, Anthony Spencer and Antonio Smith are all set to become unrestricted free agents.
Looking for the latest NFL Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow NFL Trade Rumors on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NFL News and Rumors for all 32 teams!
