Will the Atlanta Falcons make the playoffs?
It’s been a strong offseason for the Atlanta Falcons so far, and they have answered a number of important questions since January.
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Could they fix the pass rush? It seems they have. Could they improve the run game? The pieces are there to do just that.
What about the offensive line? That one is yet to be seen. But there have been moves.
But the million dollar question? Have the Falcons done enough to become a playoff team?
To come to a conclusion, we need to look at the roster and highlight the strengths and weaknesses. In 2014, the Falcons ranked eighth in total offense but were dead last on defense.
Statistics don’t tell the whole story, but in this case it’s pretty apparent were the issues were last season. If the defense was just a little more competitive, it may have been enough to lift Atlanta to one or two more victories and into the postseason.
The offense was strong, and should be even better this year. Matt Ryan is one of the most underrated passers in the league, and he has weapons around him to succeed once again.
Julio Jones is an elite wide receiver, and with Roddy White and Justin Hardy behind them, there is a strong blend of experience and youth.
The run game struggled in 2014, but the unit has seen a lot of change this offseason. Second-year Devonta Freeman has been promoted up the depth chart courtesy of the release of Steven Jackson and departure of Jacquizz Rodgers in free agency.
Freeman has a ton of potential, and he will now be competing with rookie Tevin Coleman for the starting role.
The defensive situation is a little more cloudy.
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Atlanta recorded just 22 sacks last season, which was tied for 30th with Oakland. They have added Vic Beasley via the draft, as well as Brooks Reed and Justin Durant in free agency.
Desmond Trufant has a strong group of corners alongside him now with the selection of Jalen Collins in the second round. Collins might be eased in to begin with, but long term he will likely start outside opposite Trufant.
So what do you think? Have the Falcons done enough to fix their needs?
In a wide open NFC South, are they in a position to win the division and enter the postseason? Cast your vote and let us know what you think in the comments section.