Before the Atlanta Falcons can make a run at Jadeveon Clowney in the draft, they will first focus on acquiring a free agent to help with their defensive priority to get more aggressive. Already having Osi Umenyiora on the line is nice, but the Falcons need bigger bodies to get after the quarterback. While general manager Thomas Dimitroff fully intends on attempting to get Clowney, a few other players might strike his interest first.
The Falcons' free agency run got off to a rocky start. The team was predicted to make a run at Brian Orakpo, but the Washington Redskins opted to hit the linebacker with the free agency tag, ending Atlanta's intentions. While Orakpo has said he has no intentions of signing a deal right now with the Redskins, the Falcons will not make any kind of offer on the defensive star.
So who could be next? Michael Bennett could easily find himself the next target for Atlanta. Monday's franchise tag deadline came and went and Bennett was not signed to anything with the Seahawks, all but guaranteeing his departure from the Super Bowl champs. The defensive end finished off his one year contract with Seattle and is looking for a long-term deal. After a season where he had 31 tackles and 8.5 sacks, it is certainly possible he will find a team to give him the contract he desires. Considering Bennett's last contract, he will come cheaper than others which could work in Atlanta's favor.
The Seattle Seahawks still intend on re-signing the defensive end and have a few days left before free agency actually begins. So if Bennett is also unavailable, who is left? Brandon Spikes could be an option. The New England Patriots and the linebacker are nowhere near agreeing to terms on a contract number. Many predict he will not return after finishing out his rookie deal.
D'Qwell Jackson is certainly an option. Jackson was a salary cap casualty and since being released has worked out with several teams. If the Falcons are interested, they will have competition to work with as the Miami Dolphins and the Indianapolis Colts are the latest to bring him in for a workout. If all else fails, Jared Allen could be an option. The veteran does not fit the Falcons plan for youth, but could be a productive body.