The Atlanta Falcons entered the 2025 season with playoff hopes and a roster that, on paper, looked ready to compete. But with a 6-9 record heading into Week 17, the focus in Atlanta has shifted from postseason dreams to offseason decisions. And there are plenty of them on the horizon.
A potential regime change could be in the works. The quarterback situation is murky.
And with several key players set to hit free agency, the Falcons are staring down a critical offseason that could reshape the franchise. Add in looming contract extensions for young cornerstones like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, and it’s clear that general manager Terry Fontenot won’t be able to keep everyone.
Tough calls are coming.
Here’s a look at five Falcons whose futures in Atlanta are very much in doubt.
Darnell Mooney, WR - The Clock’s Ticking
When Darnell Mooney signed a three-year deal with the Falcons, the hope was that he’d bring speed and consistency to a young receiving corps. But fast forward to now, and it’s hard to argue he’s delivered on that promise. Mooney is in the midst of a career-worst season, and with an out in his contract after this year, the writing is on the wall.
The Falcons’ passing game has been underwhelming, and Mooney’s lack of production has been a big part of that. He’s been outpaced by Robinson, London, and Pitts - all of whom are doubling his output.
That’s not a great look for a veteran receiver expected to be a steady presence. With the 2026 NFL Draft offering a deep crop of wideouts, Atlanta may look to reset the position with younger, more dynamic talent.
Kirk Cousins, QB - Future in Flux
No player on the Falcons’ roster is facing more offseason uncertainty than Kirk Cousins. His $57.5 million cap hits in both 2026 and 2027 are eye-popping, especially for a quarterback who will be 37 next season. While Cousins has played solid football in relief of the injured Michael Penix Jr., the financial reality is hard to ignore.
Cousins remains a capable starter and could draw interest elsewhere if the Falcons decide to move on. But unless he’s open to a significant contract restructure, it’s tough to see how Atlanta can justify keeping him on the books at that price - particularly when they’ve invested in Penix as the future. The Falcons need a bridge quarterback, but the question is whether Cousins is willing to be that guy at a reduced rate.
David Onyemata, DT - Veteran on the Outside Looking In
David Onyemata has been a steady presence on the interior defensive line, but this season he’s taken a backseat to the Falcons’ younger talent. Brandon Dorlus, Zach Harrison, and Ruke Orhorhoro have all flashed - and more importantly, they fit the vision of a defensive front built on youth, athleticism, and versatility.
Onyemata, at 33, just doesn’t fit that mold anymore. He’s been outplayed, and while his leadership in the locker room is valued, it’s unlikely to be enough to warrant an extension. With Jeff Ulbrich leaning heavily on his young defensive tackles, Onyemata could be the odd man out as Atlanta looks to build around its emerging core.
Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE - The Numbers Aren’t There
Arnold Ebiketie was once viewed as a building block on the edge, but this season has been a step backward. His production has dipped, and with rookies Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. making strong impressions, the Falcons suddenly have a new-look pass rush that doesn’t include Ebiketie as a central piece.
That doesn’t mean he won’t land somewhere - he’s still only 26 and could be a worthwhile addition for a team in need of EDGE depth. But in Atlanta, the investment doesn’t make sense anymore.
With Kaden Elliss emerging as a versatile linebacker and the Falcons prioritizing front-seven youth, Ebiketie is likely headed for free agency. Leonard Floyd may also be on the way out, but there’s at least a chance he returns on a team-friendly deal to finish his career in his hometown.
Mike Hughes, CB - Contract vs. Production
The Falcons’ secondary has struggled mightily this season, and Mike Hughes has been part of the problem. While A.J.
Terrell hasn’t had his best year either, Hughes being outplayed by Dee Alford is a sign of where things stand. And with his cap hit set to nearly double if he’s retained, the financials don’t favor his return.
Hughes is under contract through 2027, but that doesn’t mean he’s safe. With Billy Bowman Jr. expected back next season and Alford continuing to earn reps, Hughes could be a cap casualty. The Falcons need more consistency on the back end, and right now, Hughes isn’t offering that.
The Bottom Line
Atlanta’s 2025 season has been defined by missed opportunities and unmet expectations. Now, the front office is staring down a pivotal offseason where roster turnover is almost inevitable. Whether it’s moving on from veterans like Mooney and Onyemata, navigating the high-stakes Cousins contract, or reshuffling the secondary, the Falcons have big decisions to make.
The good news? They’ve got a young core to build around. The challenge will be making the right calls on who stays, who goes, and how to maximize the window that’s starting to open - even if it didn’t happen this year.