The Atlanta Falcons are trying to do everything they can to get as much salary cap space to work with in free agency. The team has multiple needs on both sides of the ball and would prefer to sign proven players over putting their eggs in the basket of rookies they get from the draft. However, in order to do so, they must release players and restructure contracts and several players are finding that out the hard way.
The Falcons have already released Asante Samuel and Stephen Nicholas, two 2013 starters. Thomas DeCoud is the next man out while others are sure to follow. The next step will be reworking contracts. Roddy White is expected to sign a new deal that will be more friendly to the cap situation. Left guard Justin Blalock will also be restructuring his contract. The Falcons will also be getting $7 million back when Tony Gonzalez officially retires leaving the team with over $30 million to work with. But the Falcons want more space.
According to Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports, the Falcons are requesting that defensive end Osi Umenyiora take a pay cut to save the team more money. The veteran is due $3.5 million next season which includes a $500,000 roster bonus on March 25. He is a heavy cap hit and considering his lackluster production, his future was put into question.
While speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine, head coach Mike Smith indicated that Umenyiora would remain with the team as a situational pass rusher. The 32-year-old had 7.5 sacks last season which is not back, but not worth his two-year contract. The defensive end market in free agency is very deep. If Umenyiora does not take a pay cut to stay with the team, he might not find another roster to land on. The veteran has said he wants to return to Atlanta, but if not the Falcons will not have a hard time replacing him.
The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that Michael Bennett could be a top target for the team. The defensive end would ideally like to remain with the Seattle Seahawks, but the two sides are not doing well with negotiations. Bennett worked off a one-year, $5 million contract last season and will be looking for a long-term contract. While he would be a huge upgrade on the defensive line, the Falcons may not be able to afford him if they are asking Umenyiora to take a pay cut.
Jared Allen could be an option. He will come at a good price, but is not much of an upgrade from what Atlanta already has. Raiders pass rusher Lamar Houston could be another favorite to land in the South if the Falcons have to replace Umenyiora because of salary cap space.