Atlanta Falcons 2024 Preview

The Atlanta Falcons enter the 2024 NFL season with cautious optimism, set at a win total of 9.5 after finishing 7-10 in 2023. The team made significant changes during the offseason, including bringing in a new head coach, Raheem Morris, who previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams.

With a revamped roster and new leadership, the Falcons are looking to make a serious push for the NFC South title.

Key Insights and Team Overview

The Falcons’ 2024 season will hinge on the integration of their new quarterback, Kirk Cousins, and the ability of their defense to build on the progress they made last season. With a mix of established veterans and promising young talent, Atlanta is poised to be a contender in a wide-open NFC South.

Quarterback: Kirk Cousins Takes the Helm

Cousins’ Arrival:

A Proven Veteran: Kirk Cousins joins the Falcons after a solid stint with the Minnesota Vikings, where he was on pace for a strong season before an Achilles injury cut his 2023 campaign short. Despite the injury, Cousins threw for over 290 yards per game, with 18 touchdowns and just five interceptions in eight games.
Upgrading the Offense: Cousins is a significant upgrade over Desmond Ridder, who led an offense that averaged just 18.9 points per game last season. His experience and poise under pressure should help elevate the Falcons’ passing attack.

Supporting Cast:

Bijan Robinson: The second-year running back had a strong rookie season, rushing for 976 yards and four touchdowns while averaging 4.6 yards per carry. Robinson is also a threat in the passing game, making him a perfect complement to Cousins.
Drake London: London, entering his third season, is Cousins’ primary target. He posted nearly 1,000 receiving yards last year despite inconsistent quarterback play. With Cousins under center, London could be in for a breakout year.
Kyle Pitts: The talented tight end had over 650 receiving yards in 2023, his best season yet. Pitts will be another key weapon in the Falcons’ passing game.

Offensive Line: Solid Foundation

O-Line Strengths:

Consistent Protection: The Falcons’ offensive line was a bright spot last season, allowing the fourth-lowest pressure rate in the league. Key players like left tackle Jake Matthews and right guard Chris Lindstrom were particularly effective in keeping the pocket clean.
Returning Starters: All five starters from last year return, providing continuity that should benefit Cousins as he acclimates to a new system.

Defensive Improvements Under Raheem Morris

Building on Last Season:

Defensive Growth: The Falcons showed significant improvement on defense in 2023, moving up to 18th in points per game allowed and 11th in yards per game allowed. With Morris at the helm, they’re expected to take another step forward.
Key Additions and Departures:
- Jesse Bates III: The safety was a game-changer last season, recording over 130 tackles and six interceptions. He remains the anchor of the Falcons’ secondary.
- New Faces: The Falcons added defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro through the draft and picked up veteran linebacker Kaden Ellis, who had a breakout season with over 120 tackles.
- Losses: The Falcons lost key pass rushers Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree, who led the team in sacks. The team will rely on young talents like Arnold Ebiketie to step up and fill the void.

Secondary: Mixed Results and New Additions

Solid Foundation with Room for Growth:

AJ Terrell: Terrell remains the top cornerback on the roster, though his 2023 season was not up to his usual standards. The Falcons are hoping for a bounce-back year from him.
Richie Grant: Grant struggled in coverage last season, allowing eight touchdowns. If he doesn’t improve, the Falcons might look to DeMarco Hellams, who impressed in limited action.

Season Outlook

The Falcons have the talent to compete for the NFC South title, but much will depend on how quickly Cousins adapts and whether the defense can continue its upward trajectory. Their schedule presents both challenges and opportunities, making their 9.5 win total a realistic target.

Win Total Floor: 7 Wins

Why? Even if Cousins struggles or the defense regresses, the Falcons’ schedule is favorable enough that they should be able to scrape together at least seven wins, especially against weaker divisional opponents.

Win Total Ceiling: 11 Wins

Why? If Cousins plays at a Pro Bowl level and the defense improves under Morris, the Falcons could win up to 11 games, potentially securing the NFC South title in the process.

Final Thoughts

The 2024 season is a pivotal one for the Atlanta Falcons. With a new head coach, a veteran quarterback, and a defense on the rise, the Falcons have the pieces to make a playoff push. However, the team’s success will largely depend on how quickly Cousins gels with his new teammates and whether the defense can build on last year’s progress. In a division without a clear favorite, the Falcons have a legitimate shot at claiming the NFC South crown.

Key Points Recap

Kirk Cousins is a significant upgrade at quarterback, bringing experience and leadership to an offense that struggled last season.
Bijan Robinson and Drake London headline a talented group of playmakers who could thrive with improved quarterback play.
The offensive line remains intact, providing a solid foundation for both the passing and running game.
Raheem Morris takes over as head coach, bringing a defensive mindset to a team that showed improvement on that side of the ball last season.
Win Total Floor: 7 Wins | Win Total Ceiling: 11 Wins

Falcons fans should be excited about the potential of this team. With the right breaks, Atlanta could be playing meaningful football deep into December.

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