According to Spotrac’s cap projections, the Falcons will only have $6.1 million in cap space to work with this offseason. That’s the fourth least in the league.

Ekeler’s contract came up at the perfect time for the young running back. He’s coming off back to back 500 yard rushing seasons as a backup to Melvin Gordon. He also showcased his ability in the passing game last year, recording 92 receptions for 993 yards and eight touchdowns.

At just 24-years-old and coming off a very solid season, Ekeler is going to cash in this offseason. So if the Falcons want to make a serious play for him, cutting Freeman to free up space may be their only avenue to signing Ekeler.

Releasing Freeman would free up $3.5 in cap for 2020. Ekeler is younger than Freeman and clearly on a completely different trajectory at this point in their careers. Ekeler’s skill set is pretty similar to Freeman’s, so he would be able to fit right in in Atlanta’s offense.

Ekeler to Atlanta makes a lot of sense, so we’ll have to see if it actually comes into fruition once free agency rolls around.