A former Georgia Bulldog signs a one-year contract with the Falcons.

Leonard Floyd’s return to Georgia is a full-circle moment in his career. Born in Eastman, Georgia, Floyd developed into a top prospect at Dodge County High School before committing to play for the University of Georgia. As a Bulldog, Floyd showcased his immense talent, playing three seasons from 2013 to 2015. His speed, versatility, and relentless pursuit of the quarterback made him one of the most feared defenders in the SEC.

During his time at Georgia, Floyd recorded 17 sacks and 182 total tackles, proving himself as a premier pass rusher. His breakout performances caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection by the Chicago Bears as the ninth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Now, after nearly a decade in the NFL, Floyd is returning home, bringing experience and a championship pedigree to the Falcons. His journey from a Georgia high school star to a first-round pick and now a veteran leader for the Falcons is a testament to his hard work and consistency.

A Closer Look at Floyd’s NFL Career

Since entering the league in 2016, Floyd has established himself as a reliable and productive edge rusher. His time with the Chicago Bears saw flashes of brilliance, but it wasn’t until he joined the Los Angeles Rams in 2020 that he truly hit his stride. Playing under defensive mastermind Brandon Staley, Floyd recorded a career-high 10.5 sacks in his first season with the Rams.

He remained a key contributor for the Rams over the next two seasons, helping them win Super Bowl LVI in 2022. His ability to disrupt offenses and generate pressure made him a crucial part of their championship defense.

After his stint with the Rams, Floyd signed with the Buffalo Bills in 2023. He continued to be a dominant force, tallying 9.5 sacks and proving he could still perform at an elite level. Last season with the San Francisco 49ers, he added 8.5 sacks, maintaining his reputation as a consistent pass rusher.

With 66.5 career sacks, Floyd brings proven production to the Falcons, a team desperate for an improved pass rush.

What Floyd Brings to the Falcons

The Falcons have long struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Their defense ranked near the bottom of the league in sacks last season, a glaring weakness that needed immediate attention.

By signing Floyd, the Falcons are addressing this deficiency with a veteran presence who has proven success in multiple defensive schemes. Here’s what Floyd brings to Atlanta:

Pass-Rushing Ability: Floyd’s quick first step and ability to bend around the edge make him a dangerous pass rusher. He has averaged nearly nine sacks per season over the past four years.
Versatility: He can line up as a defensive end in a 4-3 scheme or as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 system, giving the Falcons flexibility.
Veteran Leadership: As a Super Bowl champion with playoff experience, Floyd provides leadership to a young defense looking to take the next step.
Durability: He has played in every game over the past five seasons, showing that he can be relied upon to stay on the field and contribute.

With Floyd on board, the Falcons will hope to complement their young pass rushers like Arnold Ebiketie and DeAngelo Malone, creating a more dynamic front seven.

How Floyd Fits in Raheem Morris’ Defense

New Falcons head coach Raheem Morris has a defensive background and is well aware of Floyd’s capabilities. Morris was the defensive coordinator for the Rams in 2021 when Floyd was one of their top edge rushers, helping the team win a Super Bowl. This prior connection suggests Morris knows how to maximize Floyd’s strengths in the Falcons’ system.

The Falcons are expected to employ a hybrid defensive scheme, utilizing both 3-4 and 4-3 principles. Floyd’s versatility makes him an ideal fit, as he has experience in both alignments. Whether as a stand-up outside linebacker or a hand-in-the-dirt defensive end, Floyd will be a key piece in generating pressure and setting the edge against the run.

The Impact on the Falcons’ Defensive Line

The addition of Floyd is part of a broader strategy to revamp the Falcons’ pass rush. Last season, Atlanta’s defense managed just 31 sacks, ranking near the bottom of the league. By signing Floyd, the team is signaling its commitment to improving in this area.

Floyd joins a defensive line that includes:

Grady Jarrett – The veteran defensive tackle has been the heart of Atlanta’s defense for years, and adding Floyd should take some pressure off him inside.
David Onyemata – The former Saints defensive tackle was a solid addition last season, providing interior pass-rushing ability.
Arnold Ebiketie – The young pass rusher showed promise last year, and learning from Floyd could accelerate his development.

If Floyd can replicate his past success, the Falcons could take a significant step forward defensively.

Expectations for the 2025 Season

The Falcons are in a competitive NFC South, and their defense will play a crucial role in determining their success this season. With a revamped coaching staff under Raheem Morris and key additions like Floyd, the team hopes to be a playoff contender.

Floyd will likely be asked to be a veteran leader on defense, helping young players develop while also producing at a high level. If he can notch another 8-10 sack season, the Falcons’ defense will be in much better shape.

This one-year deal is also a “prove-it” contract for Floyd. At 32 years old, he is still playing at a high level, and a strong season in Atlanta could set him up for another lucrative contract next offseason.

Leonard Floyd’s signing is a homecoming story, a strategic move to improve the Falcons’ pass rush, and a reunion with head coach Raheem Morris. With his experience, versatility, and pass-rushing skills, Floyd is expected to make an immediate impact.

For Falcons fans, this signing represents hope that their defense can finally take a step forward. And for Floyd, it’s a chance to cement his legacy by helping his home-state team succeed.

If everything goes according to plan, this could be a win-win situation for both Floyd and the Falcons.