Deion Jones is the Atlanta Falcons key to defensive success

The Atlanta Falcons handed out a couple of extensions on the defensive side of the ball this offseason. Grady Jarrett got his as did Deion Jones.

We know what Jarrett means to the Atlanta Falcons defense. He is the anchor on the defensive line, if not for otherworldly numbers by Aaron Donald, Grady would easily be considered one of the best defensive tackles in the league. (If he isn’t already, that should start soon.)

But Deion Jones is the key to making this whole thing go. And when it comes to division matchups, mainly against Alvin Kamara and Christian McCaffrey, he dominates them.

People love high scoring games and the jukes and shimmies make the highlight reels. Kamara and McCaffrey are two skilled backs both in the running and passing game. But look at Deion Jones’ impact when playing against them.

Last year, in the two matchups in which he didn’t play due to injury. The Panthers’ running back went off for 14 catches for 102 yards and the guy out the backfield in New Orleans had 15 catches for 124 yards.

These are running backs we’re talking about here. Not top receivers. Players Deion Jones would have covered. Also in those games in which the Falcons split, the Panthers scored 24 points and lost, the Saints scored 43 and won.

Insert the game-changer, Mr. Jones. He has been the base of McCaffrey’s acid. In three matchups against the Panthers since coming back from injury, the Panther’s running back has had 12 catches for 77 yards, 11 for 121 and 11 for 82. He also hasn’t scored a touchdown against Atlanta and the Panthers have put up scores of 10, 3 and 20 points.

All wins for Atlanta.

In three matchups against the Saints, Kamara has mustard one catch for nine yards, eight for 50, and four for 23 yards. Ah, and how many touchdowns? Glad you asked. A zero piece.

Deion Jones may not be the hardest hitter or biggest name. But when Brian Urlacher calls you a special talent, that means something.

Jones has the ability to neutralize MVP candidates and great running backs who otherwise shred defenses. The Falcons defense has been porous more times than not this year, and a lot of contracts have been questioned.

But one player that has lived up to every cent of his so far, is Deion Jones. And he’s the reason the Falcons have been able to steal a victory in New Orleans and sweep the Panthers for the second year in a row.