Jeff Wilson, Hayden Hurst listed among Falcons’ potential free-agent targets by PFSN

The Atlanta Falcons haven’t made a roster move in about a month, but that will likely change when players report for training camp this week. Without much cap space to work with, the team had to limit its spending in free agency.

The Falcons signed a few veterans, including edge rusher Leonard Floyd, linebacker Divine Deablo and safety Jordan Fuller, but due to Kirk Cousins‘ albatross contract, that was about all the team could manage. However, there are still a few names available that might be worth considering.

Pro Football Network released a new feature highlighting the best potential fits for the top remaining NFL free agents. The Falcons were mentioned as possible landing spots for four different players — running back Jeff Wilson, tight end Hayden Hurst, tight end Gerald Everett and cornerback Mike Hilton.

PFSN on Falcons signing RB Jeff Wilson Jr.:

Wilson offers some value as a special-teams coverage player, which could give him an edge over offense-only free agent backs on the market. Teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Chicago Bears could use another RB to compete for a roster spot. Going back to San Francisco might not be out of the question given his scheme familiarity. — Jacob Infante, PFSN

Atlanta has two quality running backs in Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier, but the team cut 2024 sixth-round pick Jase McClellan and replaced him with UFL star Jashaun Corbin. While veteran Jeff Wilson might be the better all-around option, Corbin still has a ton of upside as Atlanta’s No. 3 running back.

PFSN on Falcons signing TE Hayden Hurst:

Hurst brings veteran leadership and experience to the table, making him a potential backup option for teams with young, unproven tight ends as starters. Brenton Strange of the Jaguars and Tyler Warren of the Indianapolis Colts would be good potential mentees. A reunion in Atlanta as a backup to Kyle Pitts could be an option, too. — Jacob Infante, PFSN

The team could use another capable tight end. Kyle Pitts is a solid pass-catching option, and Charlie Woerner is one of the NFL’s top blocking tight ends. Hurst, a former first-round pick, is an intriguing option.

The Falcons traded a second-round pick and a fifth-rounder to acquire Hurst from the Baltimore Ravens in 2020. The trade was largely a disappointment, but Hurst still has some value.

PFSN on Falcons signing TE Gerald Everett:

Gerald Everett was high enough in demand last offseason to net a two-year, $12 million contract from the Bears. They barely used him; he had just eight catches for 36 yards all year. Now, he finds himself a free agent going into training camp. He overlapped with Falcons OC Zac Robinson with the Rams and played for Raiders coach Pete Carroll during his one season in Seattle. Both could make sense as landing spots, as could the Detroit Lions as a backup to Sam LaPorta. — Infante

The team could use another capable tight end. Kyle Pitts is a solid pass-catching option, and Charlie Woerner is one of the NFL’s top blocking tight ends. A quality third option would make sense, though, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding Pitts’ future in Atlanta.

The former top-five pick is entering the final year of his contract in 2025. Of course, it’s possible that Pitts has a monster year and re-signs with the Falcons in 2026. Last but not least, Pro Football Network mentioned veteran cornerback Mike Hilton as an option.

PFSN on Falcons signing CB Mike Hilton:

Hilton is 31 years old but still playing at a high level. He’s reached PFF grades above 70.0 in each of his last four seasons. Nickel-needy teams would be wise to give him a call. The Los Angeles Rams stand out as a contender with slot cornerback questions, and the Falcons and Raiders could both make sneaky pushes, too. — Infante

As mentioned above, the Falcons aren’t really in a position to add any big-name free agents. However, none of the players listed are likely to break the bank. Hilton is still a capable player, but the team signed a handful of cornerbacks in free agency, including Mike Ford and Keith Taylor.

Atlanta also re-signed veteran nickel back Dee Alford and drafted defensive back Billy Bowman in the fourth round. And the team still has an ascending player in Clark Phillips III fighting for playing time. So while the Falcons could be inclined to add a tight end, it’s tough to imagine them signing Hilton or Wilson to the roster unless they suffer an injury during training camp.

Players officially report for camp on Wednesday, July 23, and begin practice on Thursday, July 24. Check out our 2025 Falcons training camp preview for an updated look at the roster and full practice schedule.