Former Georgia Bulldog star signing $10 million contract with Atlanta Falcons

In a major move that has both Atlanta Falcons fans and college football supporters buzzing, a former Georgia Bulldog star has inked a significant contract with the NFL team. The deal, worth $10 million, not only signals the arrival of a seasoned veteran but also brings a sense of pride and excitement to the city of Atlanta, as the player returns home to contribute to a Falcons squad eager for a resurgence.

The Player: Leonard Floyd’s Return to Georgia

Leonard Floyd, the former University of Georgia standout, has signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons, returning to his home state of Georgia where his college career began. Floyd, a 32-year-old edge rusher, had built a name for himself during his time at Georgia, but it was in the NFL where he truly blossomed as one of the most respected pass rushers in the league.

Before being drafted into the NFL, Floyd’s time at Georgia made him a household name among college football fans. During his three seasons with the Bulldogs, Floyd was known for his explosive athleticism, quick first step, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His college career, marked by consistency and dominance, caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in 2016, the Chicago Bears selected him with the ninth overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft.

Since entering the NFL, Floyd has carved out a successful career. He has played for several teams, including the Chicago Bears, Los Angeles Rams, and Buffalo Bills, but now, with this $10 million contract, he returns to his roots, joining the Atlanta Falcons in what may be the most pivotal chapter of his career.

Floyd’s NFL Career: A Journey of Consistency and Success

Over the years, Floyd has proven to be a reliable edge rusher, capable of creating pressure and finishing plays. As of the 2024 season, Floyd has accumulated 66.5 career sacks, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier pass rusher. Despite being in the latter years of his career, Floyd’s skill set has not diminished. His ability to generate consistent pressure on quarterbacks, paired with his leadership in the locker room, makes him an invaluable asset to the Falcons.

Throughout his NFL tenure, Floyd has had the privilege of playing alongside some of the league’s best, including fellow pass rushers and defensive players who helped elevate his game. His most notable stint came with the Los Angeles Rams, where he played under head coach Sean McVay and defensive coordinator Raheem Morris. Floyd was part of the Rams’ defense that helped propel the team to a Super Bowl victory during the 2021 season. This success was not a fluke, as Floyd’s contributions in both the regular season and playoffs were critical to the team’s defensive success.

During his time with the Rams, Floyd posted double-digit sack totals in 2020 and 2021, while also being a constant presence in opposing teams’ backfields. His consistent performances were recognized league-wide, as Floyd’s ability to bend around the edge and generate pressure became one of the more feared traits among NFL edge rushers.

Even as he entered his 30s, Floyd maintained a solid level of play, with at least 8 sacks in each of the last five seasons. This continued productivity has positioned him as one of the more reliable veterans available in free agency, and his decision to sign with the Falcons is a move that could benefit both him and the team.

The Falcons’ Defense: Struggling Pass Rush and the Need for Floyd

The Atlanta Falcons have been in the midst of a rebuild for the past few seasons. One area that has plagued the team is their pass rush. In 2024, the Falcons ranked second-to-last in the NFL, recording only 31 sacks for the season. This weakness became a point of emphasis for the Falcons’ front office during the offseason as they looked to make improvements on defense.

While Atlanta has several promising young players, including second-year defensive end Arnold Ebiketie, the Falcons were in dire need of a veteran presence who could elevate their pass rush and set a tone in the locker room. This is where Leonard Floyd fits perfectly into the Falcons’ plans. With his experience, he will provide an immediate impact on the field while also mentoring the younger players who are still finding their way in the NFL.

In addition to his experience, Floyd is also familiar with the Falcons’ defensive coordinator, Raheem Morris, who coached him with the Rams. The rapport between Floyd and Morris is expected to make the transition to Atlanta seamless, as Morris knows exactly how to get the most out of Floyd’s skill set. Under Morris, Floyd flourished as a key contributor to the Rams’ Super Bowl-winning defense, and it is hoped that this relationship will yield similar success in Atlanta.

Floyd’s Role with the Falcons: Veteran Leadership and Immediate Impact

With the Falcons’ pass rush still in need of a major overhaul, the signing of Floyd represents a much-needed boost. While Floyd is no longer in his prime, his leadership and ability to disrupt the quarterback are crucial to Atlanta’s defensive game plan. He will likely be a situational pass rusher, playing in key moments and on passing downs, allowing the Falcons to preserve his energy and maximize his productivity.

Floyd’s leadership will also be invaluable to the younger players on the roster, including Ebiketie and rookie edge rushers who are still acclimating to the NFL. Floyd’s ability to teach young players how to work on the little things—such as using leverage, bending around the edge, and being disciplined in pass-rush assignments—will benefit the team for years to come. His experience in big games, including playoff appearances and a Super Bowl win, will give him the necessary tools to mentor the next generation of Falcons defensive stars.

As a pass rusher, Floyd brings several tools to the table. He has the speed to chase down quarterbacks and the strength to overpower blockers. He also possesses a great football IQ, allowing him to make adjustments and counter moves mid-play. His versatility allows him to be effective against both the run and pass, making him a well-rounded defender.

In his new role with the Falcons, Floyd will likely be asked to rush from both the edge and, at times, from the interior, giving defensive coordinator Raheem Morris the flexibility to use him in a variety of ways. Floyd’s ability to get after the quarterback and force pressure on the opposing offense should help the Falcons’ defense become much more formidable in the 2025 season.

The Significance of the $10 Million Deal

The one-year, $10 million deal that Floyd signed with the Falcons is a significant investment for the team, signaling the importance of this acquisition. Although $10 million may seem steep for a player nearing the twilight of his career, the Falcons are making it clear that they expect immediate results. This contract also highlights the Falcons’ willingness to take calculated risks in their efforts to compete in a highly competitive NFC South division.

By bringing in Floyd, the Falcons have not only bolstered their defense but also sent a message to their fanbase that they are serious about improving their roster and making a push for a playoff spot. The money allocated to Floyd reflects a belief in his ability to still perform at a high level while helping the younger players around him grow and develop.

For Floyd, this contract is a golden opportunity to prove that he still has what it takes to be a top-tier pass rusher in the NFL. As he approaches the later years of his career, this contract provides him with a chance to finish strong, potentially extending his career even further. It’s also an opportunity to showcase his leadership and solidify his legacy as one of the NFL’s more consistent defenders over the past decade.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Falcons Defense

With Leonard Floyd now in the fold, the Falcons are hoping to take a significant step forward defensively. Their pass rush, which has been their biggest weakness in recent years, will be much more effective with Floyd’s presence. As the team continues to build around young defensive stars and refine its defensive scheme under Raheem Morris, Floyd’s impact will likely be felt immediately.

The one-year contract for Floyd gives the Falcons the flexibility to evaluate his performance without committing long-term, making it a win-win situation for both the team and the player. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Floyd as he seeks to return to his home state and help the Atlanta Falcons climb up the NFC rankings.