The Falcons have the most well-rounded roster of the new regime’s tenure, and it’s no secret why. Armed with a mountain of cap space, Terry Fontenot and Arthur Smith added a wave of talent in free agency, along with their third draft class. It’s by far the most complete group they’ve had in Atlanta, but there are still weaknesses.
Wide Receiver
Drake London broke Kyle Pitts‘ rookie reception record, hauling in 72 passes for 866 yards and four scores. Outside of the stats, he looked the part. He’s the unquestioned WR1 and will continue to build his rapport with Desmond Ridder, but it’s quite bleak after London.
Mack Hollins hauled in 57 receptions for nearly 700 yards and four touchdowns with the Raiders last year, and he’s received a ton of praise from Josh McDaniels, but let’s be realistic, he signed four $2.5 million late in free agency for a reason. He’s not a WR2 on most teams.
Scotty Miller will assume some of the WR2 snaps and brings a different skill set to the club. Miller is a field stretching slot receiver, while Hollins is a big-bodied, run blocking specialist. They complement each other.
KhaDarel Hodge only logged 13 receptions for 202 yards and one touchdown, but his impact on special teams is his most important contribution. Then, there’s everyone else.
Frank Darby, Penny Hart, and J.J. Arcega-Whiteside are the favorites for one of the last roster spots. Like many fringe players, the decision will likely come down to their ability in the game’s third phase.
It’s an extremely thin position group, but the Falcons aren’t nearly as dependent on their receivers as other offenses. You’ll be able to count the number of snaps on your hands when the Falcons roll out three wide receivers.
A more impactful WR2 could do wonders, like Corey Davis if the Jets ever part ways with him. Still, this is a nightmare situation if Drake London misses any time at all.
Swing Tackle
Jake Matthews and Kaleb McGary have been reliable presences along the offensive front, but injuries always come out of nowhere. The club moved on from Germain Ifedi, who assumed the swing tackle role last year, so the role is up for grabs.
Ethan Greenidge, Barry Wesley, Josh Miles, and Tyler Vrabel will compete for the job. Greenidge is a versatile lineman who has a connection due to his time with the Saints. XFL standout Barry Wesley is also position versatile. Miles is a physically imposing human but has never put it all together. Vrabel projects more as a practice squad member.
Wesley and Greenidge are the favorites, but the Falcons would be wise to add a more proven veteran at such an important position.
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Photographer: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire
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