NFL Free Agency 2011: Atlanta Falcons' First Objective? Re-signing Brent Grimes

After signing with the Falcons as an undrafted free agent prior to the 2007 season, Brent Grimes has become one of the better corner backs in the league.

A fantastic athlete, Grimes has used his great ball skills to pick off 11 passes the last two seasons.

Some of those picks have been clutch too, such as his interception of Josh Freeman in the Week 13 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Grimes ability to make big plays makes the defense better, yet Grimes is currently not under contract with the Falcons and that could lead to some big problems if they can't get him re-signed.

Grimes is a restricted free agent and will most likely be returning to the Falcons, but they need to get a jump on it so that he doesn't miss any time when camp starts.

Most fans, including myself, are wanting the Falcons to make a big move and sign Ray Edwards, but I think re-signing Grimes should be their top priority right now.

The Falcons are still in play for Edwards, but he is going to be pricey. Grimes wants to stay in Atlanta, but wants a good deal and he without question deserving of one. Grimes is a game-changer and losing him will really hurt our secondary.

Grimes is a Pro Bowler, so I fully expect the Falcons to get a deal done with him within a week. Anything past that could cause some friction between the two sides and put the defense back a bit.