The Falcons will look a lot different on both sides of the ball in 2023. Desmond Ridder will be calling the shots on offense. He’s the key to how far this team will go, but he’ll have no shortage of weapons around him.
Bijan Robinson and Jonnu Smith have been added to the skill position group, joining Kyle Pitts, Drake London, Tyler Allgeier, and Drake London. The offensive line also returns four of five starters, and they spent a premium pick on Matthew Bergeron, who could immediately slot in and play left guard.
However, the real improvements came on the defensive side of the ball, particularly the defensive line. For the first time in his career, Grady Jarrett won’t be a one-man wrecking ball up front. Calais Campbell, Bud Dupree, and David Onyemata have all been added in free agency, and there’s hope some of the younger guys will eventually take the next step and contribute even further. This could be a formidable unit, at least Grady Jarrett thinks so.
VIDEO: "I don't forecast no BS."@GradyJarrett telling everyone that folks coming to see #Falcons training camp are in for a treat. The culture is set and the new-look #DirtyBirds are ready to roll according to No. 97. pic.twitter.com/t98BPpslLQ
— Miles Garrett (@MilesGarrettTV) July 27, 2023
Jarrett isn’t the only one that sees it, either. Drake London was asked if anything looks different early on in training compared to last year, and there was no hesitation in his answer.
https://twitter.com/MilesGarrettTV/status/1684659258330112000
With essentially a first year starter under center, one that was drafted in the third round, it’s hard to imagine the Falcons seriously making some noise in the postseason. There are also a few other holes on the roster that need some touching up, but this is an exciting group overall.
There is talent all over, something that hasn’t been said about a Falcons team in a long time. Terry Fontenot and Arthur Smith are building this team the right way. The folks inside the building know it, and after this season, I think outsiders will realize it as well. The Falcons aren’t as far away from seriously competing as many people think.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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