Atlanta Falcons: Where do they rank on Pro Football Focus?
Nov 9, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant (21) and cornerback Robert Alford (23) talk against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Atlanta Falcons defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 27-17. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Kroy Biermann — 42nd of 59 (-5.7 grade)
The Falcons struggled to get any pass rush going in 2014, and these grades highlight this. Biermann could take a backseat role in 2015 with the additions of Vic Beasley and Adrian Clayborn.
Malliciah Goodman — 54th of 59 (-13.3 grade)
Goodman won’t be relied upon in 2015 so much, and will likely fight it out for a roster spot at the position. He can be a useful piece, but it was a disappointing season for him.
Jonathan Babineaux — 28th of 81 (+2.7 grade)
The Falcons were better inside at defensive tackle, and Jonathan Babineaux graded better than any other Falcon at this position. He could find himself used on rotation this year, however.
Corey Peters ranked 34th (plus-0.9); Paul Soliai ranked 47th (minus-2.0); Tyson Jackson ranked 56th (minus-3.8).
Oct 5, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Justin Durant (52) celebrates making a tackle in the game against the Houston Texans at AT&T Stadium. Dallas beat Houston 20-17 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Justin Durant — 17th of 40 (+3.0 grade)
Durant was one of the big free agency moves the Falcons made this offseason in Dan Quinn’s defensive overhaul. Durant could be the starting weak-side linebacker for Atlanta moving forward.
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Brooks Reed — 26th of 46 (+2.5 grade)
Brooks Reed was another free agency move by the Falcons, and he could line up as the strong-side linebacker moving forward. Quinn will be hoping the duo of Durant and Reed will be able to help the pass defense rise from the bottom of the NFL rankings.
Paul Worrilow — 59th of 60 (-22.0 grade)
Will Paul Worrilow be the starting middle linebacker? He has a lot to work on, but is young and will benefit in Quinn’s system with a better supporting cast.
Desmond Trufant — 6th of 108 (+13.5 grade)
Trufant was a rare bright spot on the defense last year. He was great in coverage, which earned him a plus-9.1 grade. There is absolutely no question that Trufant will be a starter in 2015.
Robert Alford — 81st of 108 (-6.2 grade)
With the addition of Jalen Collins via the draft, Alford’s long-term future could be in the slot, with Collins playing outside. He would be best suited in that role and it would benefit the Falcons’ secondary.
William Moore — 75th of 87 (-6.3 grade)
Going forward, William Moore will likely be the starting strong safety, and he will benefit from a strong group of corners around him.
What do you think of these grades? Do you agree with them, or are they way off the mark? Be sure to let us know.