Atlanta Falcons Busy in 2026 Free Agency

Team looks to shore up key positions despite limited cap space

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Atlanta Falcons are set to be active in the 2026 NFL free agency period, though they are not expected to make any major splashes due to limited salary cap space and a long list of their own free agents. The team will focus on addressing needs at quarterback, wide receiver, inside linebacker, cornerback, and adding depth across the roster.

Why it matters

The Falcons are coming off a disappointing 2025 season and have several key players set to hit free agency. Their ability to navigate the free agent market and make strategic signings will be crucial in setting them up for success in the upcoming season and beyond.

The details

The Falcons will need to make some tough decisions, including the likely release of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who carries a massive $70 million dead cap hit if he's not cut before March 13. They will also need to work on a long-term deal with franchise tagged tight end Kyle Pitts. Other notable free agents include defensive lineman David Onyemata, edge rushers Leonard Floyd and Khalid Kareem, and inside linebackers Troy Andersen and Kaden Ellis.

  • The 2026 NFL free agency period begins on March 13 at 4 p.m. ET.
  • The legal tampering period, when teams can negotiate with free agents, starts on March 12 at 12 p.m. ET.

The players

Kyle Pitts

A talented tight end who had a breakout season in 2025, leading the Falcons to franchise tag him.

Darnell Mooney

A wide receiver who had one strong season in 2024 but struggled with injuries in 2025, leading the Falcons to reportedly cut him soon.

Kirk Cousins

The veteran quarterback whose contract restructuring has created a "poison pill" situation for the Falcons, making it likely they will release him before March 13 to avoid a $70 million dead cap hit.

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What they’re saying

“Will it be a transformative one for the Falcons? Probably not, given their limited dollars, long list of free agents, and how competitive the market is going to be.”

— Dave Choate, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The Falcons will need to make a decision on Kirk Cousins' future by March 13 to avoid a massive dead cap hit. They will also work to sign Kyle Pitts to a long-term deal and address their many other free agents, both their own and potential outside signings.

The takeaway

The Falcons face a challenging free agency period as they look to improve their roster despite limited cap space. Their ability to make strategic, cost-effective signings will be crucial in setting them up for success in the 2026 season and beyond.