The Falcons could possibly be constructing one thing particular with their latest 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 buying Judon from the Patriots, the Falcons have a seemingly large benefit over Saints sort out 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 of expose New Orleans’ evident weak spot.
The Simmons signing (one yr, $8 million) may sting much more.
New Orleans hosted Simmons on a free-agent go to on Aug. 7, and his choice to signal with its arch-nemesis doubtless feels as good as lemon juice on a recent reduce.
As dangerous because the Saints may really feel after the Falcons’ latest 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.
Might there be a extra terrifying consequence for town than the Falcons celebrating their first league championship in it? Bourbon Road may shut down.
Atlanta’s protection was a lot improved in 2023 and is perhaps even higher in 2024 with the latest 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 workforce’s most important offseason transfer was signing free-agent quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Earlier than struggling a season-ending Achilles harm final season, Cousins began eight video games for the Vikings and was 216-of-311 (69.5 %) for two,331 yards, 18 touchdowns and 5 interceptions.
The Falcons’ offense options a number of proficient 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 rather 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 reasonable.
