Atlanta Falcons: Grading the offense at Falcons bye week

Oct 15, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) and wide receiver Leonard Hankerson (85) before a game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Wide receivers

Weeks 1-4: A
Weeks 5-9: C+
Overall: B

Where would the Atlanta Falcons be without Julio Jones? That doesn’t bear thinking about. Jones has 1,029 receiving yards and six touchdowns on the season, and is well on pace to break his previous career bests. Jones is No. 1 in receiving yards, No. 6 in receiving touchdowns an No. 2 in yards after the catch.

While the Falcons’ offense was rolling through the first four games, Leonard Hankerson was proving to be a reliable No. 2 option for Matt Ryan. But ever since suffering a ribs injury against Washington in Week 5, he’s struggled to stay healthy and produce consistently.

Outside of Jones, there hasn’t been much to write home about. Roddy White has made contributions sparsely, and rookie Justin Hardy has made some good contributions, but there is a glaring hole at the No. 2 receiver spot.

Outlook: I understand the need to get Julio Jones the football often, because he’s the best player on this team. But it’s important to feature the rest of the guys as much as possible, because Ryan has been throwing to Jones even when he’s being covered by multiple defenders.

Next: Tight ends