Title: Off-Season Atlanta Falcons: A Quarterback in Place but Many Questions Remain
As the off-season unfolds, the Atlanta Falcons have a lot of decisions to make. The team has a quarterback in place with Matt Ryan, but there are still many questions that remain unanswered. Despite having a veteran quarterback, the Falcons are facing a significant rebuild after a disappointing season. The team’s new general manager, Terry Fontenot, and head coach, Arthur Smith, have their work cut out for them as they look to reshape the roster and bring the Falcons back to prominence.
Matt Ryan, who has been with the Falcons since 2008, is set to return as the team’s starting quarterback. Despite rumors of a potential trade or draft pick to replace him, Ryan is still considered one of the top quarterbacks in the league. He threw for 4,581 yards and 26 touchdowns in the 2020 season, proving that he still has what it takes to lead the team. However, his age (35) and the size of his contract have led some to question whether the Falcons should start looking for his successor.
While the quarterback position seems secure for now, there are several other areas where the Falcons need to improve. The defense, in particular, has been a major concern. The Falcons ranked 29th in total defense last season, allowing an average of 398.4 yards per game. They also struggled to generate turnovers, ranking 23rd in the league in that category.
The team’s pass rush was particularly weak, with only 29 sacks on the season. This lack of pressure on opposing quarterbacks often left the secondary exposed, leading to big plays downfield. The Falcons will need to address this issue either through free agency or the draft.
On offense, the Falcons have some promising pieces in place. Wide receiver Calvin Ridley had a breakout season with 1,374 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. However, the team could use more depth at the position, especially with the future of Julio Jones uncertain due to injury concerns and a hefty contract.
The running game also needs attention. The Falcons ranked 27th in rushing offense last season, averaging just 95.8 yards per game. Todd Gurley, who was brought in to boost the running game, had a disappointing season, and it’s unclear whether he will be back with the team.
The offensive line also struggled at times, particularly in pass protection. Ryan was sacked 41 times last season, the eighth-most in the league. Improving the offensive line will be crucial to both protecting Ryan and improving the running game.
In terms of special teams, kicker Younghoe Koo was a bright spot, making 37 of his 39 field goal attempts. However, the Falcons could use an upgrade at punter and in the return game.
The Falcons have several key free agents, including safety Keanu Neal and center Alex Mack, and it remains to be seen who they will be able to retain. The team is also facing a tight salary cap situation, which will make it challenging to bring in high-priced free agents.
In conclusion, while the Falcons have their quarterback in place for the foreseeable future, there are many other areas that need improvement. The new management will have to make some tough decisions in the coming months as they look to rebuild the team and return to playoff contention. It won’t be an easy task, but with some smart moves and a little luck, the Falcons could be back in the mix sooner than some might think.