With the Falcons officially out of the playoff picture, the focus in Atlanta shifts to what’s shaping up to be a critical offseason. Quarterback remains the headline concern, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Several foundational pieces on both sides of the ball are either set to hit free agency or are eligible for contract extensions - and the front office, led by GM Terry Fontenot, has some tough decisions to make.
Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts are all eyeing long-term deals, and the team’s financial flexibility is already tight. That’s where things get complicated - especially when it comes to players like Tyler Allgeier, who’s quietly carved out a valuable role but may be headed for the exit.
Tyler Allgeier’s Future in Atlanta Is on Shaky Ground
Allgeier has spent the last two seasons as the clear No. 2 option behind Bijan Robinson, but don’t let the depth chart fool you - he’s been a steady presence in this offense. And with free agency looming, he’s likely looking for a bigger role and a bigger payday, something Atlanta may not be in a position to offer.
It’s no secret that as long as Bijan is healthy, he’s going to be the focal point of the Falcons’ offense. The 23-year-old has already eclipsed 2,000 scrimmage yards this season with two games still on the schedule - a staggering number that underscores just how central he is to Atlanta’s game plan.
But Allgeier has proven he can do more than just spell the starter. Back in his rookie year, he topped 1,000 rushing yards as the feature back.
Since then, he’s transitioned into a change-of-pace role, but his production hasn’t disappeared. In fact, in Week 16 against Arizona, he actually outgained Bijan on the ground - 79 yards to 76 - on the same number of carries.
That kind of efficiency, especially in a limited role, speaks volumes. And let’s not overlook the fact that Allgeier has posted a career-high eight rushing touchdowns this season - two more than Bijan - with two games still to go.
His power running style, especially near the goal line, has made him a legitimate red zone weapon. At 225 pounds, he’s built for short-yardage success, and we’ve seen plenty of backs in that mold carve out long NFL careers.
The Market May Not Reflect the Value
Here’s the catch: the running back market just isn’t what it used to be. According to Spotrac, Allgeier’s projected market value is just one year at $1.8 million.
That’s a tough pill to swallow for a player who’s been as productive and reliable as he has. Only nine running backs in the league made over $10 million this season - compare that to 36 wide receivers - and it’s clear where the league’s priorities lie.
Still, it’s hard to shake the feeling that Allgeier could command more than that. A figure closer to $4 million annually might be a better reflection of what top-tier backup backs - especially those with red zone chops - are getting in today’s NFL. But even that might be a stretch for the Falcons, who are already juggling future decisions on players like Kyle Pitts and Kaden Elliss, either of whom could be candidates for the franchise tag.
A Tough Goodbye?
Allgeier’s role in Atlanta’s offense this year has been significant. He’s not just a backup - he’s a tone-setter, a short-yardage hammer, and a player who’s delivered when called upon. Fans have taken notice, and there’s no doubt many would love to see him stay in Atlanta.
But unless he’s willing to take a hometown discount, the writing may be on the wall. Teams like Houston - where his physical, between-the-tackles style could be a better fit - might offer both the opportunity and the paycheck he’s looking for.
For now, Allgeier remains a Falcon. But with free agency approaching and the Falcons facing a cap crunch, his future in Atlanta is anything but certain. And if this is the end of his run in red and black, he’ll leave having made a bigger impact than the stat sheet alone might show.