Final prediction for the Atlanta Falcons final roster: Defense

Aug 12, 2022; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive back Dee Alford (37) in action against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 12, 2022; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive back Dee Alford (37) in action against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Falcons
Aug 27, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker Deion Jones (45) on the field prior to the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Outside linebackers (5):

  • Lorenzo Carter
  • Arnold Ebiketie
  • Ade Ogundeji
  • DeAngelo Malone
  • Quinton Bell

Inside linebackers (4):

  • Rashaan Evans
  • Mykal Walker
  • Deion Jones
  • Troy Anderson

I think we can write Lorenzo Carter, Arnold Ebiketie, Ade Ogundeji, and DeAngelo Malone in permanent marker for the Atlanta Falcons. The only question here is whether or not they decide to keep one extra guy at the position.

I will say yes because Quinton Bell made an impact against the Jaguars by blocking a punt. Sure, it was just one play but he showed everyone that he can block punts, which is more than a lot of guys can say. Getting a blocked punt during a meaningful game could end up being the reason you win, there is a lot of value there.

As for the inside linebackers, it is becoming more evident that these will be your four guys.

Rashaan Evans is one of Dean Pees’ favorites. He is a former first-round pick who was a solid player for the Titans.

Mykal Walker took a small step down in his sophomore season but expect him to be one of the starters even with Deion Jones sticking around.

It is becoming evident that Deion Jones will still be around a week from now, and that is a good thing. Not many guys in the league have the track record of Jones, and while he was awful last year, there is still that potential that he returns to form.

Troy Anderson is a lock because of where he was drafted. Extremely talented player and the future at the position.

Do keep an eye on undrafted rookie Nate Landman who has made a name for himself. He could make the roster, but if he doesn’t, he will be one of the top options for the practice squad, provided he gets past every other team’s roster.