NFL Free Agency: top team-player fits post-NFL draft 2019

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – OCTOBER 07: Philadelphia Eagles running back Jay Ajayi (26) catches a pass during the second quarter of the National Football League game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Philadelphia Eagles on October 7, 2018 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. (Photo by John Jones/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

5. Jay Ajayi and Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons have their top back already on the roster, veteran Devonte Freeman. However, his most productive years came when the team had a two-headed monster of sorts sharing the backfield duties. The team also surely learned from last season’s 27th-ranked rushing attack that entering a season with only one reliable back is a recipe for offensive disaster.

While drafting Pittsburg’s Qadree Ollison could prove to be the backup option, the team could (and should) still look for an experienced veteran as the No. 2 behind Devonte Freeman.

Enter former Eagle running back Jay Ajayi. The former Super Bowl champion will still only be 26 years old when the 2019 season starts, so his continued wait in free agency has to be at least mildly surprising. This despite the handicap placed on running backs coming off of torn ACL injuries. He’s almost certain at this point to take a one-year deal coming off of the injury, and will be fortunate enough to be only 27 when he hits free agency again next spring, hopefully coming off a healthy season.

Despite having a down year in 2018 which saw him play in only four games and rush for 184 yards, the Falcons should look to the 2,300 yards Ajayi gained over the preceding four seasons, and would also be wise to consider his career 4.5 yards per rush average.

Ajayi should be ready for training camp, having suffered his injury in October. Atlanta needs depth in their running back room, and the former Pro Bowler should fit the bill.

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