3 Falcons Veterans Who Could Be Cut After the NFL Draft

The Atlanta Falcons looked to be destined for a top 10 selection in the NFL Draft, but heated up at the end of this past season to put an end to those tanking plans. Even so, the Falcons still have a chance to improve in the upcoming draft, as they hold six picks, five of which come in the first four rounds. That gives the Falcons the opportunity to maximize on those selections, but some movement could be coming to the roster.

Here are three veterans the Falcons can part ways with after the NFL Draft.

3. DE Steven Means

Steven Means could be on the outside looking in on the defensive end depth chart. / Mitchell Leff/Getty Images

The Falcons have a desperate need for an edge rusher, despite adding Dante Fowler Jr. of the Los Angeles Rams. Takkarist McKinley hasn't exactly lived up to his first-round status from 2017, but the Falcons are in prime position to take an edge rusher in upcoming draft. In that case, one player on the positional depth chart could be shown the door, and the obvious choice is Steven Means. The former fifth-round pick is coming off an Achilles injury, and would be on the outside looking in if the Falcons add a rookie. Oh, and he accounts for just $20,000 in dead money.

2. OG Justin McCray

Justin McCray can easily be replaced in the NFL Draft. / Justin K. Aller/Getty Images

The Falcons' offensive line proved to be troublesome in recent years, and can still use some improvement, especially on the interior. Atlanta did add veteran Justin McCray to a one-year deal, but he's far from an effective blocker. as evidenced during his stint with the Cleveland Browns. The Falcons can get a quality offensive guard in the middle rounds of the NFL Draft. If they do, they can part ways with McCray, $350,000 in dead money.

1. WR Laquon Treadwell

Laquon Treadwell isn't going to make an impact on the Falcons. / Rey Del Rio/Getty Images

Laquon Treadwell was deemed a "can't miss" wide receiver prospect in 2016, but never (and we mean never) lived up to the hype. In his four-year career, Treadwell caught just 65 passes for 701 yards and two touchdowns. Although he signed as a potential No. 3 receiver for the Falcons, his contract is easy to get out of. He counts for just $750,000 against the cap, and carries $0 in dead money. Look, this year's wideout class is ridiculously deep, so the Falcons can get one who can make more of an impact than Treadwell. Will they end up parting ways with him?