Deangelo Malone

Career StatsF

Year	Team	GP	Tkl	Sacks	INT
Career		58	59	3.0	1
2025		9	8	0.0	1
2024		17	16	2.0	0
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Falcons made a cautious but reasonable investment in Deangelo Malone with this four-year, $5.2M deal that earns a C CVI grade — a fair market transaction for an unproven linebacker with developmental upside. At $1.3M per year, Atlanta is paying backup money for a player whose NFL production remains largely theoretical, but the minimal guaranteed money ($1.0M) provides smart protection against the inherent risk of betting on potential over proven performance. The contract structure heavily favors the team, essentially giving them a four-year audition period to see if Malone can develop into a reliable rotational piece without significant financial exposure if he doesn't pan out. For an organization rebuilding its linebacker corps, this represents the type of low-risk, moderate-reward move that allows them to stockpile depth while maintaining salary cap flexibility for more established talent. The deal reflects Atlanta's realistic assessment of Malone's current value while positioning themselves to benefit significantly if he exceeds expectations and develops into a solid starter.

Performance Analysis

DeAngelo Malone earns an F for the Falcons at linebacker, a player who has not generated the pass-rush production that made him a draft selection. Malone has the athleticism to be an NFL edge rusher, but his technique and strength have not developed enough to compete consistently against NFL offensive tackles. Atlanta has been searching for edge-rushing help, and Malone has not been the answer. His limited production has pushed him down the depth chart behind more effective options. The Falcons may need to move on if Malone cannot show significant improvement.