Atlanta Falcons News: Falcons must void left by Justin Durant

Dec 27, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen (88) carries the ball after a catch past Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Justin Durant (52) in the second quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen (88) carries the ball after a catch past Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Justin Durant (52) in the second quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Good morning, Falcons fans. As you sip your coffee this Thursday morning, enjoy getting caught up with all the latest articles from the Atlanta Falcons blogosphere. Let’s dive right in.

Falcons need to fill void with Justin Durant released — Vaughn McClure of ESPN

Following the surprise release of Justin Durant, the Falcons have an ever greater sense of urgency to fill their linebacker void. Whether this is done via free agency, the draft or both, the Falcons need to continue the development of the defense by shoring up their group of linebackers.

Expect young, athletic group of cornerbacks in 2016 — Dave Choate of The Falcoholic

The Falcons’ defense has its holes, but the group of cornerbacks looks to be in good shape for 2016. Desmond Trufant is one of the best in the business, and he forms a strong combination with Robert Alford. Young Jalen Collins and Akeem King complete a group of four young corners. The latter two should make a jump this offseason. And who knows, maybe the Falcons will add more talent to the position via the draft.

Roundtable: Looking ahead to NFL combine — Kelsey Conway of AtlantaFalcons.com

As one season finishes, the other begins. All attention for each NFL team is now on the offseason, and that includes the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine. The AtlantaFalcons.com staff have a lot to discuss in their latest roundtable.

Falcons defense still a long way off elite — Dave Choate of The Falcoholic

Even in a a pass-happy league which is further growing in favor of offense, it’s still elite defenses winning championships. Denver won on defense; Seattle did two years ago. But how far is Dan Quinn’s unit away from the elite? Unfortunately, there’s still a lot of work to be done.