Atlanta Falcons must decide what they’re playing for

With four games left in the Atlanta Falcons season, it’s time for the team to decide what it is they’re playing for.

The Atlanta Falcons are a team of two halves. Early on they would open games flat and became a second-half team that dug themselves a hole too big to overcome. That was the same for their overall wins and losses.

With only three wins, it’s time for the brass to make a decision. What’s more important for this team? Seeing what type of talent they have in the rookies and young players? Is it a draft position? Or is it making sure they get through the rest of the season healthy?

It seems to be a foregone conclusion that Dan Quinn won’t be returning as the Falcons head coach next season. Although, nothing in this world is a given. But it would be a darn shame if he does.

Think about it, the Steelers are on back-up quarterbacks, running backs, and receivers are in the hunt for the playoffs. The Falcons have had few major injuries and are eliminated. That’s coaching.

The glaring issues the Falcons have aren’t going to be filled by rookies. They need to make some tough cuts this offseason to get in proven talent on the defensive and offensive line and in the secondary.

Keyword, talent.

Not just veteran guys, not journeyman, not the feel-good story. But players who can and will come in and make a difference.

In the Falcons final four games, how important should winning be to this team? They are tied for the fifth-worst record in the league and a high draft pick is going to be worth more than pride for a few wins.

This season is essentially done. The Falcons have been eliminated from the playoffs and don’t play the New Orleans Saints again. There’s nothing left to gain. It’s time for them to make a decision now about what they’re after and stick to it.