The Atlanta Falcons got a genuine surprise in 2015 given the production of Pro Bowler Patrick DiMarco, likely prompting the team to stand pat the fullback position.
DiMarco entered training camp in an open and fierce competition with Collin Mooney, and frankly until Mooney suffered a season-ending arm injury in the team’s preseason finale, had done little up to that point to clearly win the gig.
However DiMarco was able to erase any concerns that lingered at the end of the summer with his play during the regular season, helping lead the way for the stellar production that running back Devonta Freeman saw through a large portion of 2015. DiMarco’s play led to him being voted onto the All-Pro team as well as being named to the Pro Bowl as an alternate.
DiMarco is entering a contract year with the Falcons and his play in 2015 could at least open the possibilities of the Falcons signing him to an extension. The potential of that possibility only increased when the Falcons opted to waive Mooney yesterday.
With Mooney’s exit, the Falcons will certainly bring in some added competition in training camp to push DiMarco. But in all likelihood it will be undrafted rookie or a street free agent, that will be hard-pressed to unseat the Pro Bowler.
The presences of DiMarco means that the Falcons should be content with their starting spot and only seek to add mild competition heading into this summer’s training camp. Ultimately DiMarco’s grip on a roster likely indicates that any additions here will be little more than camp bodies.
