The San Francisco 49ers are in the midst of a significant rebuild following a disappointing 6-11 season in 2024, which came after their Super Bowl appearance in 2023. As part of this transition, the team has released Leonard Floyd, a starting edge rusher who joined last year on a two-year, $20 million deal. Floyd's 8.5 sacks last season tied him for 22nd in the league, but with the 49ers looking to save cap space, his exit opens the door for Atlanta to bolster its pass rush.

The Atlanta Falcons quickly capitalized on Floyd's release, signing him to a one-year, fully guaranteed contract worth $10 million. This signing comes after the Falcons also let go of Grady Jarrett, creating much-needed cap space. With a notable deficiency in quarterback pressure last season, Floyd's addition marks a strategic move to address Atlanta's defensive shortcomings. Given his Georgia roots, this move also serves as a homecoming for Floyd.