Atlanta Falcons: Devonta Freeman tops team grades after bye week
Sep 27, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Joseph Randle (21) runs with th ball against Atlanta Falcons linebacker Justin Durant (52) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Linebackers
Kroy Biermann
Biermann isn’t some pass-rushing guru and isn’t going to put up big numbers but he is a great supporting member and should rotate in and out within the game. His best attribute towards the team is helping stop the run and his versatility along the line. In the year so far he has recorded 30 tackles and one sack. Those are great numbers for somebody who is going to be asked to play multiple positions.
Grade: C+
Brooks Reed
When he’s healthy and in the starting rotation, Reed shows his worth. The five-year veteran plays with great leverage and understands his role in stopping the run. He was held back in the beginning of the year due to a groin injury, but since his return he’s been solid. I think that he’ll be an important piece in the future.
Grade: B+
O’Brien Schofield
In my opinion, the best offseason pickup has been the man who played for Dan Quinn in Seattle. Schofield has made a impact of every aspect of the game that he has been apart of. He has arguably been the team’s best pass rusher and helps with run support. He has 14 tackles and two sacks but his impact is felt more than in the stat book. Plus, he brought back the Dirty Bird dance. How cool is that?
Grade: A-
Paul Worrilow
The third-year veteran has made steps in the offseason to improve his ability in coverage but let’s be honest, that’s not his best ability. So far he has a team-leading 56 tackles. Smarter than people give him, Worrilow makes the checks and calls that many fans don’t see in regular action. Watching film on him is even better when you compare his knowledge of the game to last year.
Grade: B-
Justin Durant
When healthy, Durant is great linebacker that can play all downs in any situation. Sadly, that hasn’t been the case this year. On the season, he has 40 combined tackles and one interception. He is productive when on the field but has been dealing with injury problems that affected him even back when he was with the Cowboys. I loved the signing of the nine-year pro but his ability to stay healthy affects his grade heavily.
Grade: C+
Nate Stupar
Nate Stupar has been a valuable asset to the team in both special teams and defense. He has recorded a career high 23 tackles and one sack for the year. When Durant went down due to injuries, Stupar stepped up at the weak side linebacker position and played above expectations. He is agile in coverage, a nice run supporter, and plays with high energy.
Grade: B
Next: Defensive backs