Falcons release OLB Dante Fowler after 2 seasons

The Falcons released outside linebacker Dante Fowler on Wednesday following two seasons with the team. A former No. 3 overall pick, Fowler signed with Atlanta in 2020 but never became the impact player the team was hoping for.

Prior to the 2021 season, Fowler took a pay cut of over $6 million in order to remain with the Falcons. Part of that restructure allowed the team to void the remaining years of the contract, so Fowler was always going to hit free agency.

As NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport explains, the Falcons are essentially just letting him go early instead of waiting for the new league year, which should give Fowler a leg up in finding a new home.

The #Falcons released Dante Fowler a bit early, as his 2022 season was voided after the last restructure. So he’s free before the league year.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 16, 2022

In two seasons with the Falcons, Fowler totaled 59 tackles (26 solo) and 7.5 total sacks. Moving on from the former Florida star is no surprise but it doesn’t mean the team has a legitimate replacement on the roster.

Look for Atlanta to address the edge position in the upcoming NFL draft.