Falcons Going Conservative on Free Agent Signings Maybe to Keep Julio Jones

ATLANTA (AP) – The Falcons’ financially conservative approach to this year’s free-agent signings may have been influenced by hopes of keeping star wide receiver Julio Jones from leaving next year.

Jones can be a free agent following the 2015 season. Even while signing 12 free agents, the Falcons have protected salary cap space to deal with Jones, who set a franchise record for yards receiving last season.

The Falcons have added at least four possible starters in free agency: linebackers Justin Durant and Brooks Reed, defensive end Adrian Clayborn and wide receiver Leonard Hankerson – as the third or fourth receiver. Tight end Jacob Tamme could start.

Even so, Atlanta didn’t land any of the biggest names on the market. Some newcomers may struggle to make the team.