Jan 13, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) reacts during the second quarter of the NFC divisional playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports
If you are looking for a free safety in free agency, here’s one to keep an eye on.
Falcons Pro Bowl safety Thomas Decoud to be released by 4 pm EST, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 11, 2014
He’s not a long-term solution but in the right scheme DeCoud has potential as a ball hawk. He intercepted 10 passes between 2011 and 2012 before Atlanta’s front seven completely collapsed in 2013.
In his Pro Bowl season, 2012, DeCoud allowed a 66.3 quarterback rating intercepted six passes, and allowed a 62% catch rate. Those numbers are attainable with KC’s front seven and would be a significant upgrade over Kendrick Lewis. Again, it is not a sexy choice but it is an affordable one that makes the team better.
Don’t be surprised if the Chiefs don’t make a significant move at free safety, however. John Dorsey has been very high on Sanders Comings and there are affordable free agent backup options in-house with Husain Abdullah and Quintin Demps. This seems to be a more likely route than the Chiefs looking for a significant signing in free agency.
Still, DeCoud is a guy to keep your eye on.