The Atlanta Falcons entered the 2023 season with high expectations, but ultimately finished with a disappointing 7-10 record after a strong 2-0 start. The team struggled to find success despite their early momentum, and former head coach Arthur Smith learned the hard way that you can’t hide your quarterback in the NFL. As a result, he was let go and Raheem Morris returned as head coach.
The Falcons made quarterback a top priority in the offseason by signing Kirk Cousins in free agency and drafting Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft. With these new additions, the team is looking to improve on their low rankings in completion percentage, passing yards, and passing touchdowns over the past two seasons. While there may be some challenges with the Cousins-Penix quarterback dynamic, the team is hopeful for improvement as Cousins showed impressive stats at the beginning of last season before suffering an injury.
On defense, not much has changed aside from Cousins and possible impacts from Mooney. However, the Falcons have added veterans with starting experience to play opposite A.J. Terrell and will have to integrate new players along the defensive line under the guidance of head coach Raheem Morris and defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake. Despite blowing multiple leads last season, the Falcons are optimistic that Cousins can help them end their playoff drought. With a favorable strength of schedule in 2024, they will face tough opponents like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Kansas City Chiefs in the early weeks of the season. Many believe that if they perform well this upcoming season, they will be closer to achieving their playoff aspirations than expected.
In conclusion, despite finishing below expectations in 2023 with a disappointing record of 7-10 after starting strong at 2-0; The Atlanta Falcons are determined to improve their performance this upcoming season with new additions such as Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr., as well as experienced veterans on defense under new leadership from Raheem Morris and Jimmy Lake. With a favorable schedule and tough opponents early on; The Falcons are hopeful that they will finally end their playoff drought this coming year.
