Five Falcons Players Primed For A Breakout Season In 2014
By Jake Bennett
August 9, 2012; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive end Jonathan Massaquoi (96) in the game against the Baltimore Ravens at the Georgia Dome. The Ravens beat the Falcons 31-17. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports
ER Jonathan Massaquoi
The Falcon who is most primed to have a breakout season in 2014 has to be Jonathan Massaquoi. Mike Smith showed more of a willingness to give younger players playing time this past season, and Jonathan came up with a respectable 4 sacks. However, teammates and Falcons fans alike have higher hopes for the pass rusher in 2014.
Due to the fact that the Falcons are transitioning into more of a 3-4 base defense, and don’t have an experienced edge rusher aside from the aging Osi Umenyiora and recently injured Kroy Biermann, Massaquoi could see extensive playing time. If Jonathan can produce around 10 sacks in 2014, the Falcons may be reluctant to spend a first round pick on pass rushing help in the 2015 draft.