3 Biggest takeaways from Atlanta Falcons week six upset win

3. Atlanta still needs an elite pass rusher

Arnold Ebiketie and Grady Jarrett have both had their impressive moments as pass rushers for the Atlanta defense this season. However, the team still lacks that one consistent presence that makes the quarterback throw the ball a bit early or better yet consistently put the quarterback on the turf.

Jarrett has come up with clutch sacks for three of the last four games but as an interior lineman cannot continue to be counted on as Atlanta’s lone source of pass rush. Perhaps Ebiketie develops into that player for now though Atlanta lacks a clear threat to the quarterback and that will haunt this team when it comes to playing elite quarterbacks.

Atlanta’s hustle and ability to create turnovers have helped cover up the continued lack of pass rush. While this is an issue for Atlanta this is a team whose schedule is still going to give the team a chance to contend for the final wildcard spot even if Grady Jarrett is the only consistent pass rush.  Finding a pass rusher in free agency or the draft during the off-season should remain Atlanta’s biggest priority.