For all the instability and limitations at the quarterback position, there was one theme from watching the Atlanta Falcons all season. They have a severely flawed defense with a coaching staff unable and unwilling to elevate talent consistently. Outside of Kaden Elliss being unleashed as a punishing blitzer and some clever simulated pressure designs after the bye week, it’s hard to pinpoint many instances where the Falcons’ defense looked equipped to stop above-average offenses.
They were outthought, outmanned, and bereft of answers when teams started to find a rhythm against them. Look no further than the season finale where Bryce Young was maneuvering in the pocket without any trepidation, throwing the ball decisively across the field.