Why Atlanta Falcons Can Be Breakout Defense

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The Atlanta Falcons are a fascinating squad entering the 2023 season. Head coach Arthur Smith has found ways to scratch and claw for surprising victories at various moments. However, he enters a crucial third season as Atlanta head coach following back-to-back 7-10 finishes. Meanwhile, the Falcons are arguably the most talented that they have been on paper at most premium positions.

Sure, a decent roster on paper will not always amount to success on the field. The Atlanta Falcons could still be a feisty, tough team to battle with, week in and week out. Overall, Atlanta made certain prominent additions in free agency. Some of those could lead to a defensive breakout for the Falcons, which most people are not likely expecting.

Could the Falcons jump into the top ten, or at least top half of the league, in most defensive categories? Today, we will list some reasons as to why Atlanta could be a breakout defense in 2023. Let’s kick it off.

Long-Time Building Blocks Are Still Trending Upwards

When thinking about some defensive building blocks for the Atlanta Falcons, a couple of names have seemingly continued to get better year after year. Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett has probably become a bit underrated, when it comes to his standing at his own position. He has rarely missed a game throughout his entire career, not missing a single contest in the last four seasons. On the other hand, Jarrett is able to wreak havoc in the backfield against both the run and the pass. His pressure and hurry numbers have been reliably steady in the last handful of years.

Another player that has shined since stepping into the league is cornerback AJ Terrell. Simply put, the 16th overall pick from 2020 makes opposing receivers earn everything that comes their way. His combative and tenacious nature in coverage is assertive, yet controlled. Add in Terrell’s mix of ball skills, savvy footwork and smooth breaks on the football, and Atlanta has a legitimate shutdown, do-it-all cornerback on the outside.

Offseason Additions Are Set To Make Major Impact

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There were plenty of offseason additions to the Atlanta Falcons defense. Essentially, every move appeared to be calculated in building clearer depth and immediate contributors at all three levels. Atlanta also added an intriguing mix of veteran leaders, top-of-the-market stars and adequate role players.

The headline-grabbing addition for the Falcons on defense was the signing of Jessie Bates. In a deep free agent safety class, Bates was near the top of the list. His range, nose for the football and coverage instincts make him one of the most well-rounded safeties that Atlanta has had in a long while. He brings recent playoff success and experience to this younger roster, to boot.

Some worthy depth additions include linebacker Kaden Elliss and cornerback Jeff Okudah. Elliss not only comes over from the division rival New Orleans Saints. He also has worthy experience in the defensive scheme of new Falcons defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, who spent the last six seasons on the Saints’ coaching staff. At this point in his career, Okudah is worth taking a flier on after an offseason trade. Hopefully the change of scenery can lead to worthy depth alongside the aforementioned Terrell.

Finally, veterans like Calais Campbell, David Onyemata, Bud Dupree and Mike Hughes will only bring more wisdom to the Atlanta Falcons defense. Some of these names may only have a handful of plays that stand out each week. When it comes to their leadership and advice to younger pieces, so many strides could be taken from this side of the ball.

Current Atlanta Roster Construction May Only Make Falcons Defense Stronger

It is one thing to have the influx of talent to the defensive side of the football. More importantly for the Falcons, Atlanta may be forced to play a style that keeps games tight. This is due to the lack of experience and little in terms of proven commodities on offense.

It is anyone’s guess as to what the Atlanta Falcons will receive at quarterback. Desmond Ridder appeared in four games late last year. Yet, there is so much development still needed as he enters his sophomore season. The signing of Taylor Heinicke could help give Ridder some mentorship. Though, it would not be all that surprising to see Heinicke play in a pinch, if necessary. But, getting consistent results from the veteran is no guarantee, of course.

We also know that Coach Smith likes to incorporate the running game heavily. Rookie Bijan Robinson is expected to receive a sizable workload out of the gate. Elsewhere, Tyler Allgeier looks to provide solid production as a complementary runner. Despite a successful running attack, there could be a lot of close, low-scoring games that the Atlanta Falcons are involved in. Due to that play style and the abilities of the defensive roster, the Falcons may be forced to lean on the defense taking that noticeable step forward.

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– Braden Holecek is the Kansas City Chiefs managing editor for Full Press Coverage. He covers the NFL. Like and follow on Follow @ebearcat9//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js Follow @FPC_Chiefs//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js and Facebook.