Falcons: Grading each defensive position vs. Lions

The Atlanta Falcons’ defense struggled as a unit during their first preseason game

The Falcons are hoping to get more out of their defense this year than they did last year. They could not stop any offense that was considered decent last season.

Seven times they allowed their opponent to score 30 points or more, and four times they allowed 25 points or more. That has to change, especially with an offense on the other side that has endured a multitude of changes.

Dean Pees has set lofty expectations for them as he has stated they will be talked about like the Ravens and Patriots defenses are talked about.

Listen, you love the confidence, but in reality, no one should be expecting that, mostly because they do not have a proven pass rusher on the outside. All great defenses are able to hit the quarterback, but that is the exact area the Falcons are weak in.

We got to see them in action for the first time against the Detroit Lions. Their starting defense was pushed around by Jared Goff and for the most part, the backups played a little better but not great.

So, here are the grades for each defensive position during the Falcons’ first game of the year: