Atlanta Falcons free agency 2018: Top 5 targets

Probably the most notable name that the Falcons will think long and hard about retain has to be defensive end Adrian Clayborn. In three years with the Falcons, Clayborn has emerged as a reliable, pass-rushing presence for the Dirty Birds. He destroyed Dak Prescott last season with a six-sack performance versus the Dallas Cowboys.

That game alone nearly had Clayborn go over 10 quarterback sacks for the first time in his career. In Atlanta, Clayborn has had a clean bill of health and has certainly carved out an important role in Dan Quinn’s defensive line. The issue has is more about how much he has left in the tank and how much he will cost on the open market.

Clayborn is coming off his second contract with the Falcons, having signed a two-year deal worth $8.5 million. If Atlanta can work out a deal for around $4-5 million annually, Clayborn could return to the Falcons for a fourth year and beyond. However, he will be 29 years old in his eighth year in the league out of Iowa.

Essentially, Clayborn is a known commodity for the Falcons. He won’t have another six-sack performance probably ever. However, Clayborn could provide the consistency necessary along the defensive line to help the Falcons get back to and maybe win a Super Bowl.