Both coach Dan Quinn and G.M. Thomas Dimitroff have described linebacker Sean Weatherspoon as an important part of the team’s defense. It currently appears, however, that he’ll be part of another team’s defense.
Per a source with knowledge of the situation, Weatherspoon is expected to eventually sign with the Saints or the Cardinals.
A first-round pick in 2010, Weatherspoon missed all of 2014 after rupturing an Achilles tendon in the offseason. He played in only seven games in 2013.
Due to his recent injury history, the Falcons and Weatherspoon likely have had a hard time agreeing on his value. Currently, it appears that the Saints and/or the Cardinals have placed a higher premium on the player who, when healthy, can be a key part of any defense.