The whiteboards in the facilities in Flowery Branch should all have one word plastered on the top of them: Defense. The Atlanta Falcons fielded a lackluster defense last season that allowed 30+ points in four of their last seven starts, including their final two weeks that resulted in overtime losses. One of the more disappointing aspects of the defense, other than its lack of creativity, was the play from two veterans that were picked up toward the beginning of the season: Matthew Judon and Justin Simmons.
Both players were picked up for one-year deals, giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents to either be re-signed and be a part of the Falcons retooling efforts or find a worthwhile opportunity elsewhere.