Falcons Mailbag: Answering Your Questions
Yesterday, we called for your Falcons questions on social media.
Send us your Falcons questions! We'll answer the most popular questions in an article tomorrow! #MailbagMonday
— Blogging Dirty (@BloggingDirty) July 17, 2017
Now we’ll do our best to give you answers.
What are your expectations for the offense under Coach Sark?
— Sweet Georgia Sports (@SweetGASports) July 17, 2017
While the obvious expectation would be for the Falcons offense to take a step back with a new offensive coordinator, Steve Sarkisian has a very good offensive track record and seems to be more grounded in his approach than Kyle Shanahan. Meaning, sometimes Shanahan’s plays felt unnecessarily complicated, but Sarkisian can let his players flourish in a system they know and perform well in.
The offense should be just as good or better than it was in 2017, and it should still be very fun to watch.
what are some real expectations for takk's first year in Atlanta?
— Raekwon Gilbert (@RxGilbert97) July 17, 2017
Falcons first round draft pick Takkarist McKinley has generated tremendous hype, with much of it coming from his infamous “Fine Me Later” draft day speech and vastly entertaining social media presence. However, it is important to remember that McKinley underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum and glenoid fracture after the NFL combine. His recovery time has never been clear, with some experts claiming he’ll be ready to play Week 1 and some saying he’ll spend the first six weeks of the season sidelined on the Non-Football Injury list.
McKinley does present relentless drive and great potential, but it may take time for him to play at full speed. If he’s ready to go early in the season, then maybe we’ll see the passionate pass rusher start games, but he may play more in rotation if his recovery lasts longer than expected.
A modest prediction for McKinley’s first NFL season would be 5.5 sacks and 30 tackles, but he could easily blow those numbers out of the water if he doesn’t miss any time and is fully recovered at the start of the season.
Who will be the surprise breakout player in 2017 no one saw coming?
— Randy Gurzi (@rgurzi81) July 17, 2017
In 2016, the Falcons’ surprise breakout player was Taylor Gabriel, and it’s exciting to look at the talented Atlanta roster and know that there are several play-makers with the same potential. Fifth round draft pick Brian Hill, running back out of Wyoming, has tremendous athletic ability and could be a real threat on special teams this upcoming season. Also, there a big things expected of second-year receiver Justin Hardy due to his great catching ability and his effectiveness as a slot receiver.
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