This week, the Atlanta Falcons took gigantic steps to pivot away from multiple disappointing seasons.
The moves the team made in the last few weeks show the front office got the message from fans sick of seeing embarrassment Sunday and hearing excuses the following week.
The team has a new head coach, Raheem Morris. It has brought several new assistant coaches to help him out. New quarterback? Kirk Cousins. New running backs? Check. New wide receivers? Check. The team re-signed some of their most impactful existing players and sent others who did not fit the direction of the new Falcons on their way. Check.
Terry Fontenot and company have addressed most of what’s on their to-do list for this off-season. So what’s missing?
Defense.
The Falcons rank 20th in rushing yards allowed, according to Fox Sports statistics, with an average 118 rushing yards allowed. They also rank 21st in sacks, 29th in defensive interceptions, and 26th in passing yards allowed. Part of the reason the Falcons struggled last year was because they couldn’t stop the run, could not get enough sacks, or make defensive plays efficiently. The loss of veteran DT Grady Jarrett in midseason due to injury exposed the Falcons’ defensive shortfall.
So pass rush and defensive ability should be what Flowery Branch should be thinking about when they look toward the upcoming NFL Draft.
This year, the Falcons have the number 8 pick in the first round. They also have the 43rd pick in the second round, the 74th pick in the third round, another third-round pick thanks to a swap with Jacksonville, #79, #109 in round four, #143 in round five, and two picks in the sixth round, #187 and #197 (from Cleveland.) Eight chances to get a stronger offensive line.
According to NFL.com, the Falcons need an edge rusher, a cornerback, and a defensive tackle. It wouldn’t hurt to double up on available edge rushers or tacklers.
The team has lacked a pass rush for some time. Opposing teams have taken advantage of the Falcons’ absence of consistent defense, and the Falcons have the opportunity to fill that hole in this year’s draft.
Last year, the Falcons disappointed some fans and observers by having the #8 pick and settling for “the best available” when they needed a quarterback and a pass rusher. Luckly the top pick was running back Bijan Robinson, who would pay the Dirty Birds big dividends in the regular season. But two underperforming quarterbacks and no defensive strength help lead to a 7-10 season nonetheless. They can’t miss the target again this coming Draft.
The Falcons made all the right moves so far with their choices in coaching and offense so far. Now it’s time to make smart moves so the team’s defense can rise up. The upcoming NFL Draft is the best place to start right now.
by Brian Allen
Editor and Founder, Sports In The ATL.