2009 Falcons Preview: Back To Earth, But Not For Long

NFC SOUTH
3. Atlanta Falcons
Projected Record: 7-9

Offense: B+
Defense: C-
Coaching: B-

What's new: Firstly, my computer. I had this all written yesterday and then my computer decided to do it's annual crash. So this will be the second time I write about the Falcons. In terms of the new for the Falcons, they brought in Tony Gonzalez from the Chiefs, Mike Peterson from the Jags and they also used their entire draft on defensive players. That's eight players in all.

What's good: The offense as a whole. Matt Ryan was far and away the 2008 Rookie of the Year. Michael Turner, Michael Jenkins and Roddy White are outstanding weapons. The offensive line is still young, but they are a solid unit. That's the only reason the unit doesn't get an A grade.


Roddy White is part of a dangerous offense, despite getting a ridiculous raise in the offseason.

What's bad: The defense as a whole. Keith Brooking, who is on the downside of his career, bolted for Dallas. That leaves the Falcons with the same gaping hole that Tampa has after losing Derrick Brooks. Other than Peterson, John Abraham and Jonathan Babineaux, there isn't a whole lot that will scare the opposition. Have you heard of Brent Grimes? How about Stephen Nicholas? Or Thomas DeCoud? They are all starters on the defense, but they might as well be members of the chain gang.

What to expect: A trip back to Earth for the Falcons. Like Miami and Baltimore, this was a team that snuck up on everyone in 2008, and they won't have that ability in 2009. And like the rest of this division, they have to go through the NFC and AFC East in 2009. Last year they had a much easier time playing the NFC North and AFC West. The Falcons are set up well for success through the next four to five years...maybe even longer. They've done a great job rebuilding after the Mike Vick fiasco. This season will mearly be a speed bump on their road to success.