North Fulton Today

Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith said the team hopes to sign Grady Jarrett to an extension that keeps him with the only NFL team he has ever known.

Though the defensive end is only contracted to play one more season for the Falcons, marking the end of his four-year deal signed in 2019, Smith emphasized his value to the team, making his future uncertain, according to a report by NFL.com.

"He knows where we stand,” Smith told NFL.com. “We love Grady. We also know that players may have their own opinions, and that's welcome. It's part of doing business. We'll see how it plays out. I love Grady and we'd love to keep coaching him."

Playing for his hometown Falcons, Jarrett has made two Pro Bowl appearances, the report stated.

According to the report, Jarrett currently counts nearly $24 million toward the salary cap. Getting a contract extension this offseason could create cap space.

Despite not divulging private conversations between himself and Jarrett, Smith made it clear that the team values what he has done for their defense, the report stated. While his size may not make him an ideal scheme fit, Smith told the NFL that does not play a factor as he debates his long-term future on the Falcons' defense.