Atlanta Falcons: 5 reasons why the defense will bounce back

Sep 7, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Adrian Clayborn (94) celebrates after a sack during the third quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Strong offseason moves

The Falcons have made a lot of moves this offseason to bolster a depleted defense. Vic Beasley is obviously the biggest move, but there are plenty of other acquisitions to get excited about.

In free agency, the Falcons splashed out on linebackers Brooks Reed and Justin Durant. Neither are likely to put up double-digit sacks, but together they help improve the corps. It’s early on in camp and the depth chart is merely a first draft right now, but Reed and Durant are both listed as starters.

O’Brien Schofield and Adrian Clayborn were also good additions, and both are on the bubble of starting roles. The two add competition in camp and will contribute to an improving defense.

A player to get excited about is fifth-rounder Grady Jarrett. Many considered his selection a ‘steal’ by the Falcons, and some analysts projected him to be taken in the second round.

Our very own Kevin Knight wrote an excellent in-depth article on how Jarrett will fit into the Falcons’ defense, which you can find here.

He’s likely to be used in a more rotational role initially, but he could become an anchor in the defensive line in the future.

Overall, you have to like the additions made by the Falcons this offseason on defense. Sure, hopes were raised over Michael Bennett and Bruce Irvin following Quinn to Atlanta, but plenty of talent has been added to this team.

Next: Can the offense have an effect?