Falcons Release Altmyer, Sparking Interest from Multiple Teams

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 9:40 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Nevada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, UNITED STATES

Falcons Cap Casualty Casey Altmyer Draws Interest From Multiple Teams: A Look at the Cornerback Market and Potential Fits

The Atlanta Falcons' recent decision to release cornerback Casey Altmyer to free up $3.9 million in cap space has quickly turned the 26-year-old into one of the more intriguing free agent options at his position. While the move was a fiscally responsible one for the Falcons, who are navigating a competitive free agency landscape, it has opened the door for several teams to potentially benefit from Altmyer's versatility and reliability. Initial reports indicate the Las Vegas Raiders, Denver Broncos, and Miami Dolphins are all showing interest, but what does this say about the cornerback market as a whole, and where might Altmyer ultimately land?

Altmyer's journey to this point is a testament to perseverance. Signed off the street by the Falcons in August 2022, he quickly carved out a role, appearing in 26 games over the last two seasons, including 10 starts. While his statistics - 50 tackles, one interception, and four pass breakups - aren't eye-popping, they belie a player valued for his dependability and ability to fill multiple roles. He isn't a shutdown corner, but he's a competent one, and that's a valuable commodity, especially for teams facing cap constraints or needing depth.

The interest from the Raiders, Broncos, and Dolphins each makes sense from a team-specific perspective. The Raiders, under new leadership, are rebuilding and desperately need to address holes across the defense. While they'll likely target higher-profile corners in free agency or the draft, Altmyer could represent a low-risk, high-reward signing to provide competition and experience. Denver, similarly, has been struggling defensively for years and is in a constant search for players who can improve their secondary. Their coaching staff will value Altmyer's adaptability.

Perhaps the most intriguing fit is with the Miami Dolphins. Already boasting a strong core of defensive talent, the Dolphins can afford to add pieces that enhance their depth and provide flexibility. Their aggressive defensive scheme benefits players who can switch between roles, and Altmyer's proven ability to play both inside and outside would be a significant asset. Furthermore, the Dolphins' cap situation, while not dire, could make a relatively affordable veteran like Altmyer particularly appealing.

Beyond these three teams, it's reasonable to expect other contenders to emerge. The Chicago Bears, with a significant amount of cap space and a rebuilding defense, could see Altmyer as a solid building block. The New England Patriots, undergoing a complete overhaul, might prioritize experience and reliability as they rebuild their secondary. Even teams considered Super Bowl contenders, such as the San Francisco 49ers or the Kansas City Chiefs, might consider Altmyer as a valuable depth piece, particularly if they suffer injuries to their starting corners.

The release of Altmyer reflects a larger trend in the NFL - the increasing importance of cap management and the willingness of teams to prioritize flexibility over holding onto players with moderate contracts. While Altmyer was a serviceable player for the Falcons, $3.9 million in cap space is significant, and the team clearly felt they could allocate those funds more effectively elsewhere. This highlights the business side of the NFL and underscores the fact that even players who consistently contribute can become cap casualties.

Ultimately, Altmyer's market will be dictated by his contract demands and the level of competition from other teams. He's unlikely to command a massive deal, but he should be able to secure a contract that reflects his value as a versatile and reliable cornerback. The coming weeks will be crucial as he explores his options and seeks to find the best fit for his skills and career aspirations. He's a prime example of a player who has earned a second chance and will likely seize it with both hands, proving that being a 'solid' player in the NFL is a valuable asset in itself.