FLOWERY BRANCH – Former Buffalo defensive end Mario Williams, who recorded 43 sacks over the past four seasons, would add instant credibility to the Falcons' anemic pass rush.
He’s just one year removed from 15 sacks and All-Pro honors. The Falcons are projected to have $30.6 million in salary cap space.
Falcons coach Dan Quinn’s reputation around the league for working with veteran defensive linemen should help the Falcons if they elect to go after Williams, who could also serve as a mentor to defensive Vic Beasley.
The Falcons had just 19 sacks last season, which was last in the league.
The Falcons will have to check out Williams’ problems in Buffalo. He complained about dropping into coverage and about having to partake in conditioning drills, according to the Buffalo News. He had only 19 tackles and five sacks last season.
Williams was the No. 1 overall pick by the Houston Texans in the 2006 draft. He signed a six-year $100 million deal with the Bills in 2012.
Williams has played in 145 games and has 96 career sacks.
