The Falcons have now re-signed three exclusive rights free agents

The Atlanta Falcons have recently secured the return of three exclusive rights free agents, namely long snapper Liam McCullough, interior lineman Ryan Neuzil, and the standout performer of the 2023 season, Nate Landman.

Nate Landman, an undrafted free agent from Colorado, initially joined the Falcons in 2022 after going undrafted. His rookie season saw limited action, with just one tackle across seven games mainly contributing on special teams. However, his fortunes changed dramatically in 2023 due to unfortunate circumstances. When Troy Andersen sustained a season-ending injury in Week 3, Landman was thrust into a starting role alongside Kaden Elliss. This opportunity proved to be transformative for Landman as he excelled, starting 14 games and amassing impressive stats including 110 tackles, three pass breakups, three forced fumbles, and two sacks.

With Jimmy Lake now coordinating the defense, the Falcons’ linebacker unit boasts three capable players in Elliss, Landman, and Andersen. Despite the high expectations associated with Andersen, who was a second-round draft pick from Montana, the competition for the starting role alongside Elliss in 2024 may be between Andersen and Landman. Landman’s standout performance in his second season was marred by concerns about his coverage abilities, presenting an opportunity for Andersen to showcase his reliability in that aspect of the game and potentially secure the starting position.

However, the Falcons’ defensive scheme in 2024 will ultimately dictate the playing time distribution among the linebackers. If the team opts for three off-ball linebacker sets, all three players are likely to see significant action. At the very least, the Falcons have a reliable backup option in Landman, who has proven himself as a starting-caliber player.