Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes' "holdout" this offseason lasted all of one day.
The team announced Tuesday that Grimes signed his franchise tender after being absent from voluntary work on Monday. A former practice squad player, Grimes has steadily developed into one of the most consistent cover cornerbacks in football. He will make $10.431 million this year.
We doubt it's a coincidence that Grimes signed his deal on the same day that the Asante Samuel-to-Atlanta rumors surfaced. Grimes may have seen the possible addition of a high priced cornerback as a threat. It was reported earlier this offseason that Grimes had "no plans" to sign the tender and wanted a long-term deal.
If the Falcons traded for Samuel, they theoretically could have rescinded the tag to Grimes. While the fifth-year pro would do just fine as a free agent, the big money this offseason has already been spent. Atlanta may have been not-so-subtly putting the screws to Grimes by leaking their interest in Samuel.
Put it this way: It would be very surprising to see Grimes, Samuel, and Dunta Robinson in the same secondary this year.
