The 2023 Atlanta Falcons finished with a 7-10 record, missing the playoffs for the sixth consecutive year. The season ended on a sour note with a demoralizing 48-7 loss to the Saints, leading to head coach Arthur Smith’s dismissal. The Falcons’ struggles extended beyond coaching, with inconsistent quarterback play plaguing the team for several seasons. Despite glimpses of promise, the Falcons struggled to find consistency, leaving both fans and players frustrated.
Recognizing the need for change, the Falcons made significant moves in the offseason, particularly at the quarterback position. The signing of veteran quarterback Kurt Cousins on a lucrative 4-year, $180 million contract signaled the Falcons’ commitment to addressing their offensive woes. Adding to the intrigue, the Falcons drafted Washington quarterback Michael Pennock with the eighth overall pick, injecting youth and potential into the quarterback room. With these key additions, coupled with a roster already showing potential, the question arises: How far can the Atlanta Falcons go in 2024?
Defensive Concerns: Can the Falcons Generate Enough Pressure?
While the Falcons’ offensive upgrades have dominated headlines, their defense raises significant concerns. The departures of key players like Calais Campbell, Jeff Okuda, and Bud Dupree leave a void in experience and production, particularly in the pass rush. Grady Jarrett, a cornerstone of the Falcons’ defensive line, is returning from a torn ACL and faces questions about his long-term durability and ability to return to his dominant form.
The Falcons’ pass rush remains a significant question mark. While Arnold Ebiketie showed promise with a six-sack season, relying on a young player to lead the pass rush carries inherent risk. The Falcons’ lack of proven depth at edge rusher is concerning, and their ability to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks will be crucial to their success.
The Falcons’ secondary presents a mixed bag. While the presence of AJ Terrell and Jessie Bates provides a solid foundation, the depth and consistency beyond those two remain uncertain. The Falcons will need to address their secondary concerns if they hope to compete against the league’s elite passing offenses.
Offensive Firepower: A Potent Offense Ready to Take Flight
While the defense presents concerns, the Falcons’ offense is poised for a significant leap forward in 2024. The arrival of Kurt Cousins brings stability and a proven track record of success to the quarterback position. Cousins’ ability to make accurate throws and read defenses should elevate the play of the Falcons’ talented receiving corps, including Drake London and Kyle Pitts.
Drake London, a rising star, enjoyed a promising rookie season despite inconsistent quarterback play. With Cousins at the helm, London’s production could skyrocket, establishing him as a true number one receiver. Kyle Pitts, a unique talent with exceptional athleticism for his size, has yet to reach his full potential. Cousins’ arrival could unlock Pitts’ potential, creating a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
The Falcons’ running game, led by Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier, should also benefit from Cousins’ presence. With a legitimate threat at quarterback, defenses will be forced to respect the pass, creating more opportunities for Robinson and Allgeier to exploit running lanes. The Falcons’ offensive line, a strength of the team, should provide ample protection for Cousins and open holes for the running backs.
Rookie Impact: Tempering Expectations in 2024
While the Falcons’ draft class features intriguing prospects, their impact in 2024 might be limited. Michael Pennock, the eighth overall pick, is unlikely to see significant playing time barring an injury to Cousins. The Falcons will likely prioritize Pennock’s development, allowing him to learn the offense and adjust to the speed of the NFL.
Second-round pick, defensive tackle Siaki “Rook” Iotoeli, faces a similar situation. Defensive tackle is a position that often requires time for rookies to adjust to the physicality of the NFL. While Iotoeli possesses the potential to be a disruptive force in the future, expecting significant contributions in his rookie season might be unrealistic.
Schedule Outlook: Navigating a Challenging Slate
The Falcons face a challenging schedule in 2024, with tough matchups against contenders within and outside their division. Their season will likely hinge on their ability to navigate a difficult early-season stretch that includes road games against the Eagles and Chiefs. The Falcons will need to find a way to steal a win or two early in the season to avoid falling behind in the playoff race.
The Verdict: A Promising Season with Potential for Playoff Success
The 2024 Atlanta Falcons are a team on the rise, poised for a significant improvement over their 2023 campaign. The arrival of Kurt Cousins and the continued development of their young offensive weapons should make the Falcons a formidable offensive force. However, their defensive concerns, particularly in the pass rush and secondary depth, cannot be ignored.
While a deep playoff run might be a stretch, the Falcons have the potential to compete for the NFC South title and secure a playoff berth. The Falcons’ success will depend on their ability to solidify their defense and for their young players to continue to develop alongside their established stars. If the Falcons can address their weaknesses and their key players remain healthy, they have the potential to be a dangerous team in 2024.
