The Falcons might be constructing one thing particular with their current defensive strikes.
As important as Atlanta’s additions of outdoor linebacker Matt Judon and security Justin Simmons are, what makes them even sweeter for the group is how a lot they sting the division-rival Saints.
By acquiring Judon from the Patriots, the Falcons have a seemingly big benefit over Saints deal with Trevor Penning, who struggled mightily in coaching camp and in Week 1 of the preseason.
The groups play in Weeks 4 and 10, and Judon ought to be capable to expose New Orleans’ obvious weak point.
The Simmons signing (one year, $8 million) would possibly sting much more.
New Orleans hosted Simmons on a free-agent go to on Aug. 7, and his determination to signal with its arch-nemesis doubtless feels as good as lemon juice on a contemporary reduce.
As unhealthy because the Saints would possibly really feel after the Falcons’ current transactions, issues can nonetheless worsen.
The Falcons have a roster that ought to win the NFC South and will go deep within the playoffs.
Tremendous Bowl LIX is in New Orleans.
May there be a extra terrifying final result for the town than the Falcons celebrating their first league championship in it? Bourbon Road would possibly shut down.
Atlanta’s protection was a lot improved in 2023 and is likely to be even higher in 2024 with the current additions.
The protection shifted 16 spots in yards allowed a season in the past, from No. 27 in 2022 (362.1 yards per sport) to eleventh in 2023 (321.1 yards per sport).
Nonetheless, the staff’s most vital offseason transfer was signing free-agent quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Earlier than struggling a season-ending Achilles damage final season, Cousins began eight video games for the Vikings and was 216-of-311 (69.5 p.c) for two,331 yards, 18 touchdowns and 5 interceptions.
The Falcons’ offense options a number of gifted playmakers together with operating again Bijan Robinson, broad receiver Drake London and tight finish Kyle Pitts.
After being saddled with below-average quarterback play the previous two seasons, the offense ought to be far more environment friendly with Cousins.
And now, the Falcons protection has added star energy to match, making that worst-case state of affairs for New Orleans a bit practical.
