ATL Standard

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – After three consecutive 7-10 finishes, the Atlanta Falcons have made significant changes this offseason, including appointing a new head coach and signing a new starting quarterback. This marks the first time since 2008 that the Falcons will start the season with new faces in both pivotal roles. However, expectations for this team differ from those led by Mike Smith and rookie Matt Ryan.

Falcons CEO Rich McKay emphasized the organization's mindset at an end-of-year press conference with Arthur Blank in January. "This is a unique situation for me because in many of these, you hear the phrase 'direction.' 'Oh, we have to change direction.' That's a classic phrase in a situation like this," McKay said. "I think we like the direction of the team and the franchise, but I think we need results, and we need results sooner rather than later."

The Falcons aim to avoid regression despite these changes. The team's prospects for 2024 are mixed with optimism and unanswered questions.

Tori McElhaney suggested that the Falcons should "Outrun the South." This rallying cry originated from head coach Raheem Morris during his first team meeting to begin OTAs in April. According to McElhaney, there is no reason why the Falcons shouldn't be atop the NFC South given their current roster. She acknowledged challenges from divisional rivals such as the Buccaneers, Panthers, and Saints but maintained that division games are crucial.

Will McFadden echoed similar sentiments by stating that winning their division should be Atlanta's primary goal. He noted that past records indicate this is an achievable target. "Winning the NFC South should be priority No. 1 for everyone in the organization," he stated. The key stretch identified is Weeks 4-10 when Atlanta will face its main divisional opponents multiple times.

Terrin Waack emphasized achieving a winning record as a minimum expectation for Atlanta in 2024. She pointed out that it has been six seasons since Atlanta last had a winning record (2017). A winning record may not guarantee postseason play but serves as an essential step forward.

Amna Subhan called for a playoff appearance either as NFC South champions or via a wild-card spot. Despite having one of the easiest schedules on paper, early-season adjustments will be critical due to new systems and personnel changes, including quarterback Kirk Cousins recovering from an Achilles injury.

The consensus among analysts is clear: whether through divisional dominance or overall improvement, tangible progress is expected from Atlanta this season.