Freeney willing to return, but Falcons still considering their options
Dwight Freeney is ready and willing to return for a 16th season, that is, if the Atlanta Falcons will welcome him back.
The veteran defensive end spent last season with the Falcons on a one-year deal and contributed four sacks in a season that included a trip to the Super Bowl. He's recently spoken with Atlanta head coach Dan Quinn about eschewing retirement for a reunion.
"He wants to play. I'd say he's further along in the decision than he was last year," Quinn said, according to Vaughn McClure of ESPN.
The Falcons may not be as willing to pick up where they left off, however.
Freeney spent last season mentoring pass-rusher Vic Beasley. As a result, Beasley led the league in sacks in his sophomore season with 15.5.
Now, the Falcons are prepared to move forward with Beasley leading the defensive line, one that now includes first-round pick Takkarist McKinley.
"He knows I'm going down the line of looking at our team here," Quinn said about the Falcons' interest.