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8 hours ago
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The Atlanta Falcons are hoping to usher in a new era of football with Michael Penix under center.
As the southpaw prepares to take over the starting duties entering his second season, it's crucial for the front office to provide him with a sufficient supporting cast.
Though the core of players including Drake London, Bijan Robinson and Darnell Mooney is a solid group, it wouldn't hurt to add some depth to the wide receiver room.
That's why Ethan Woodie of NFL Trade Rumors suggested Atlanta as a potential landing spot for veteran wideout Keenan Allen.
With QB Michael Penix Jr. entering his first full season as the starter, the Falcons should be doing everything they can to support him. Allen is one of the best receivers still available on the open market, and with London in the fold they don't need a number one target anyway. Allen's skill set as an underneath possession receiver would complement the current core well, and his dependability would be a big help to the young Atlanta quarterback. We've seen similar situations work out well, such as with Panthers WR Adam Thielen. It didn't work for Allen with the Bears last year, but they had more problems than just him. It's not the cleanest fit on paper, but the Falcons just need some reliable depth at this point.
At 33 years old, Allen is not the Pro Bowl caliber player he was during his 12-year run with the Los Angeles Chargers. Still, he can have a positive impact for an offense that could use depth in the intermediate area of the field.
In 15 starts during the 2024 season with the Chicago Bears, Allen posted 70 receptions for 744 yards and seven touchdowns.
Spotrac projected Allen would be in line for a two-year deal worth $22 million in free agency but given the fact that he's still unsigned, it's likely the six-time Pro Bowl selection will settle for a one-year deal.
The Falcons can be a playoff contender if Penix provides enough of an impact, and the hypothetical addition of Allen could help facilitate that development.
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