Atlanta Falcons Offseason Review
The Atlanta Falcons are definitely not lacking in confidence. As they head into the 2025 offseason, it feels like déjà vu—this is the second consecutive year they’re looking like serious contenders, yet there are still some adjustments needed to truly rise above. Last season, Kirk Cousins faced a tough injury before handing the reins over to Michael Penix Jr., and it’s clear they need to make strategic decisions moving forward.
Time will tell if that confidence borders on arrogance. The NFC South isn’t particularly strong, which creates an opportunity for teams like Atlanta. But, after observing their offseason moves, it’s evident they’ve had both successes and missteps that could impact their chances.
Coaching Staff Changes
One of the major shifts for the Falcons was their decision to let go of defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake after a disappointing season. This seems like a sound choice.
Under Lake’s guidance, the defense fell from 11th in yards allowed in 2023 to a concerning 23rd in 2024, largely due to ineffective use of key players.
Additionally, defensive line coach Jay Rodgers was also dismissed after the team recorded just 31 sacks last season.
Head coach Raheem Morris has brought in Jeff Ulbric as the new defensive coordinator, along with Nate Ollie to lead the defensive line. Ulbric carries experience from his time as interim head coach with the Jets, and this change seems promising.
Grade: B+
Free Agency Moves
Heading into free agency, the Falcons had limited cap space. They made a notable move by signing cousins in 2024, which consumed a large chunk of their budget. Instead of splurging on new talent, they opted to reinforce their existing roster, spending on two key players: LB Deablo Divine, who brings notable potential.
Floyd is expected to provide solid leadership for the younger players drafted by the team. Nevertheless, their lack of substantial free agency improvements primarily stemmed from financial constraints.
Grade: C-
2025 NFL Draft Analysis
Looking at the draft, it’s a mixed bag. They started strong by selecting Jaron Walker with the 15th pick, which was widely seen as a smart move. However, the decision to gamble on James Pierce Jr.’s future raises some eyebrows. It’s evident that the Falcons are high on him, but rumors suggest he may have been available much later, raising concerns about their strategy.
It creates a challenge when assessing this draft class. On one hand, the Falcons risk damaging their future, but on the other, they’ve improved their pass rush with these selections. Therefore, a middle-ground evaluation seems appropriate.
Grade: B-
Overall Assessment
Ultimately, it circles back to the confidence this franchise has in itself. The Falcons genuinely seem to believe they can make a significant playoff run, even if it feels a bit out of reach. The big questions remain—are the defensive additions enough, and can Michael Penix Jr. develop into the franchise quarterback they’ve been searching for?
If everything clicks, they could be quite successful, although that isn’t often the case. For now, it appears the Falcons are aiming to settle somewhere in the middle of the NFC South and potentially achieve a 10-win season.
Grade: C+
