NFL Free Agency: Tyson Jackson Signs With Atlanta Falcons
By Ben Nielsen
Dec 22, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Tyson Jackson (94) celebrates after a tackle in the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at Arrowhead Stadium. The Colts won 23-7. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Yes, Atlanta is going to be Kansas City south. Ian Rapoport is tweeting the former No. 3 overall pick is going to sign with the Falcons.
Tyson Jackson has agreed to a deal with the Atlanta #Falcons, per source. They continue to get tougher.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2014
We knew Jackson was on his way to Atlanta for what we thought was a visit. Turns out may be for a physical.
Kansas City now officially has an opening at the starting right defensive end. The Chiefs have lacked a quality pass rushing defensive end since trading Jared Allen away in 2008. It will be interesting to see how the Chiefs choose to attack the position for 2014: Are they going to look for a long-term solution or are they going to patch-work it?
One name to keep in mind is 2013 draft pick Mike Catapano. There is reason to believe he could be the Chiefs’ starting defensive end for 2014, especially after his solid performance as a reserve. Should Catapano be able to get his weight up to around 290 pounds then he could be the in-house solution for the Chiefs.
The Chiefs could also look to the draft to fill the spot. Many think this is a deep defensive line class so there are options available to the Chiefs in all rounds. This draft is going to be crazy interesting.