Onyemata signed with the Falcons as a free agent in 2023. The veteran defensive lineman had a great first year under Ryan Nielsen but was slightly less effective this season. It would be hard to imagine the team cutting both defensive linemen without clear replacements. Rookies Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus played sparingly last season.

After four years at Alabama, one at Ohio State and two national championships, the 6-4, 280-pound McLaughlin would bring a ton of experience to Atlanta. The Falcons are expected to try to re-sign Drew Dalman at center, but if they don’t, this position moves way up on the priority list.

The Atlanta Falcons made a bold move by taking Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 pick in the 2024 NFL draft, but it appears to have paid off after one season. Penix gave the team life over the final th