The Atlanta Falcons finished the 2023 season with a record of 7-10. While positive things came from the season, the team disappointingly ended the year by missing the playoffs. Following the down year, the organization knew it needed to make big moves fast.
After bringing in multiple playmakers and stars over the offseason, the Falcons look ready to bounce back in 2024. Thanks to playing in the NFC South, which was statistically the worst division in the NFL last season, the Falcons have had the best chance at success since reaching the Super Bowl in 2017.
Offseason Additions
In hopes and attempt to revamp the Atlanta offense, the Falcons decided to move on from QB1 Desmond Ridder and sign Kirk Cousins. Though Cousins is coming off of a season-ending Achilles injury, the Falcons believe they have found the leader of their offense. The team also selected Heisman finalist Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. While it was a controversial move, the Falcons now offer one of the best quarterback rooms in the league.
On the defensive side, Matthew Judon and Justin Simmons highlight the multiple additions made in the offseason. Judon is one of the best linebackers and pass rushers in the league, and although he missed most of last season due to injury, he is looking to make an impact in Atlanta this season. On the other hand, Simmons joins an already talented Atlanta secondary with AJ Terrell. Simmons previously dominated the safety position for the Denver Broncos but will now be looking to find his second wind with the Falcons.
Possible Strengths
Some expected areas of success for the Falcons start with their circumstances. Being in the NFC South offers multiple advantages that will help the Falcons find success in the win column. With their biggest competition being the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who won the division in 2023 with a record of 9-8, the Falcons should have no problem winning games.
In terms of on the field, the offense is looking to make a substantial leap from last season. With the addition of Cousins to the already-stacked offensive depth chart, the Falcons look to explode with offensive production. Players like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts will light up the stat sheets again this season, and they may do so even more than in past seasons.
Possible Struggles
Some expected areas of struggle are slim for the Falcons. After being only a couple of games away from winning their division last season and following all of the off-season additions, it should be an easy ride to the playoffs. Though injuries have plagued the pasts of multiple playmakers, there is nothing that is detrimentally awful. They will undoubtedly have struggles throughout the season, however, it is unclear at this moment what they may be.
Though not necessarily a struggle, countless teams in the past have added veterans and big-name players, and underperformed. Cousins and Judon will be returning from nasty injuries, which could affect both sides of the ball for the Falcons. Not only do these players have to return from injury, they are also entering a brand-new system. While additions are positive, they could negatively impact the team due to chemistry and morale effects.
Final Thoughts
On paper, the Atlanta Falcons have a real chance to be contenders for the NFC South and the entity of the NFC. However, teams like the San Francisco 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles are the logical favorites to secure the NFC. If the Falcons start running on all cylinders, they could make some noise in the playoffs.
Following a lackluster season, the Falcons should have only one place to go, up. While it is uncertain how their season will unfold, considering what is known, it is understandable to expect extensive things. Can the Atlanta Falcons bounce back from last season, or were the changes all for nothing?
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