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4 Atlanta Falcons who must drastically improve in the 2023 season

By Nick Halden

Jan 8, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder (4) drops back to pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 8, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder (4) drops back to pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Falcons
Jan 2, 2022; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive end Grady Jarrett (97) before the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Any Atlanta Falcons pass rusher not named Grady Jarrett

Another season and another year the Atlanta Falcons finish at the bottom of the league in sacks. Whether it is with the 8th pick in the draft, a big trade, or simply bringing in a myriad of options in free agency Atlanta must find a way to generate a pass rush.  Dean Pees didn’t turn this defense into the respectable team that was discussed throughout camp and during his tenure as Atlanta’s defensive coordinator.

Pees didn’t help Atlanta, but the veteran coach had very little pass-rushing talent and if you cannot rush the passer in this league your defense isn’t stopping anyone. With the way the league rules are set up to favor receivers and more offense, you can only ask your secondary to stay in coverage for so long. Whether you’re in man or zone it is inevitable that someone is going to find their way open when the defensive line cannot get home.

The Falcons need a pass rusher or a defensive coordinator capable of creating one with a position group that has become Grady Jarrett or bust.

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