There is a newfound vitality in Flowery Department, and it begins below heart.
With second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. formally taking the reins in Atlanta, the Falcons enter the 2025 season with actual expectations and actual firepower. Veteran Kirk Cousins, now backing up Penix on a large contract, seems comfy within the mentor function, not less than for now.
However this yr, it is the Penix present. And it is laborious to not get enthusiastic about what’s round him.
The “core 4” of Penix Jr., Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts are anticipated to be full-go this fall, and in the event that they keep wholesome, this group has the potential to be one of the crucial dynamic younger models within the NFL. Penix’s deep-ball accuracy and fast decision-making pair completely with London’s physicality, Pitts’ versatility and Bijan’s explosiveness in each the run and move recreation.
This group is not simply constructed for the long run. It’s constructed to win now.
After years of inconsistency and the lingering heartbreak of blowing a 28-3 lead in Tremendous Bowl LI, followers in Atlanta have purpose to imagine that is the yr. A 12- or 13-win season is not only a aim, it is an expectation. A playoff berth? All however sure. Residence-field benefit? Inside attain. And if we’re being daring, which this Falcons group calls for, there is no purpose to not point out the phrases Tremendous Bowl look and Tremendous Bowl champions.
The protection, usually the Achilles heel of previous Falcons groups, has quietly remodeled into a quick, bodily and well-coached unit. With sensible offseason additions and progress from younger playmakers, Atlanta could lastly have a protection to match its offensive potential.
There’s a completely different feeling round this group. It isn’t simply hope, however perception. And in a wide-open NFC South, perception may be all of the Falcons must lastly take flight.
