The Falcons haven’t had a ton of success drafting under Terry Fontenot, specifically with Atlanta’s most valuable draft picks.
Kyle Pitts is garnering bust allegations; Tyler Allgeier is a more efficient runner than Bijan Robinson, and Arnold Ebiketie still somehow can’t beat Lorenzo Carter out for a starting role. Richie Grant, in the final year of his rookie contract, is playing a minimal role on defense.
Ruke Orhorhoro hasn’t been active for a single game this season. Desmond Ridder was traded, while DeAngelo Malone is nothing more than a special teams contributor. First, second, and third-round picks seemingly were wasted, but one highly drafted player had a breakout performance on Sunday.
In the Falcons win over the Saints, Troy Andersen logged 10 tackles, one for loss, a pass defended, and a pick-six off a Derek Carr tipped pass by Matthew Judon. Despite some early struggles, Andersen is playing with a newfound confidence.
Getting Troy Andersen going is paramount for the defense to reach its full potential. When Nate Landman returns from injury, it’ll enable Kaden Elliss to assume a more versatile role, specifically rushing the passer, which the Falcons haven’t been able to do.
Unfortunately, Andersen’s breakout performance ended with a knee injury. His status for Thursday’s primetime matchup against the Buccaneers is in serious doubt. He already missed Monday’s practice, and the Falcons signed Rashaan Evans to the practice squad.
Rookie JD Bertrand and Evans would be possible replacements if Andersen isn’t able to go, but it’s a difficult situation that the former second-round pick may have to nurse an injury right after enjoying the breakout performance of his career.
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