The Atlanta Falcons were frustrating to watch in many ways during the 2024 season. Not due to a terrible record, but because they could’ve been so much better than what they were. When looking at the roster, the talent was obvious. A new, cunning coaching staff and an experienced quarterback in Kirk Cousins looked primed to compete for the NFC South title and make the playoffs, at the very least.
Instead, what we witnessed was inconsistent quarterback play, non-existent pass rush, and plenty of late-game struggles, leading to an 8-9 record — inexcusable for a team as talented as they were. Going into 2025, the team looks to turn over a new leaf. With a full offseason of starter work for Michael Penix Jr. and more experience for second-year head coach Raheem Morris, Atlanta’s time to shine could be on its way.
The Falcons Look to Take a Step Forward in 2025
Raheem Morris Looks to Improve Defensively From Year One
While there were coaching struggles from Morris’s debut as the Falcons’ head coach, many were due to a lack of depth and injuries. Both of which are hard to overcome, as turning over a decimated defensive roster in one offseason is near impossible, compounded by being hit by untimely injuries to integral parts of the defense.
As well as Morris’ coaching could improve the defense, a talent infusion was much needed, specifically at the edge rush position after ranking 31st in sack production in 2024. Thankfully, that’s exactly what general manager Terry Fontenot did, drafting not only one, but two edge rushers in the first round. Georgia product Jalon Walker at 15th overall, who was considered a top 10 talent but slipped due to positional versatility, and James Pearce Jr. at 26th overall — another top talent with elite upside as a speed rusher, who dropped after questions around his ability to stop the run and maturity, both of which can be fixed.
With ball-hawking rookie safety Xavier Watts replacing the inconsistent Justin Simmons and important players like linebacker Troy Andersen, as well as promising young players Ruke Orhorhoro and Bralen Trice returning from injury, Atlanta’s defense will be completely transformed. One of Morris’ biggest strengths is adapting schemes to fit personnel, and with so much talent being inserted, the Falcons’ defense could be scary.
Michael Penix Jr. Will Ignite the Atlanta Falcons Offense
2024 was not an easy year for Penix Jr., not because of his play, but because he had to see a rapidly aging Cousins take control of a stacked offense with Bijan Robison, Drake London, Darnell Mooney, Kyle Pitts, and a top-five offensive line, just to lead Atlanta to mediocrity. Penix Jr. would eventually get three starts towards the end of the year against the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, and Carolina Panthers, going 1-2 with average on-paper stats, though his performance becomes more impressive when reading between the lines.
Penix Jr. injected urgency and energy into a stagnant offense, showing ability to avoid pressure, impressive arm talent, and the leadership needed from a modern NFL quarterback. With a full offseason of starter preparation, an elite offense around him, and poor NFC South defenses, Penix Jr. could have one of the best second-year quarterback seasons we’ve seen in a while.
For how much talent he has around him, a good Penix Jr. in 2025 would make the Falcons offense great.
What Can We Expect From the 2025 Atlanta Falcons?
After years of underwhelming performances, 2025 will mark the beginning of a new era for the Falcons with a young quarterback and respected head coach leading the way. Morris will turn a struggling 2024 defensive unit into a top-half defense in 2o25, with a now juiced-up pass rush and improved secondary. On the other side, Penix Jr. will take the promise that is the Falcons offense and turn them into a near juggernaut, leaning on Robinson, who should anchor one of the best rushing offenses in the league.
Not only are they well-equipped for the future, but the Falcons can win now. Don’t be surprised if they push the Buccaneers for the NFC South title and come away with a playoff win. Doubt the Falcons in 2025, and your team will likely add another L to their schedule.
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