3 Reasons to believe the Atlanta Falcons are headed in the right direction

Jun 9, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Dean Pees talks to cornerback A J Terrell (24) during OTA at Falcons Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 9, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Dean Pees talks to cornerback A J Terrell (24) during OTA at Falcons Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Falcons
Jun 9, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Dean Pees talks to cornerback A J Terrell (24) during OTA at Falcons Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Dean Pees

The more I have listened to Dean Pees and watched his defense throughout camp the more I’m convinced Atlanta found the right leader to instill a new defensive attitude and outlook in Atlanta. The Falcons’ defense has only been known for missed tackles, assignments, and poor discipline over the last four years. Last season the team’s outlook and level of hustle noticeably shifted despite their lack of talent.

This season there with the addition of Casey Hayward to slot alongside A.J. Terrell and Atlanta adding a myriad of pass rush options there is a reason to believe the defense will take a step forward.

Pees has made it clear as well that he doesn’t care where a player stands on the depth chart or how big the number on their paycheck might be. The player who competes and plays at the highest level is going to be given a starting role. He is building a competitive unit that is one year away from being a legitimately good defense and that is going to start with noticeable improvement this season.