Bleacher Report's NFL scouting department ranked all 32 teams after the 2024 NFL draft. Bleacher Report ranked the Atlanta Falcons defense 24th, citing their lack of turnover production as a major reason for the ranking, despite their success "on a down-to-down basis" last season.
Why They're Ranked Here
The Falcons defense was solid in a few areas last season. They were 17th in scoring and top three in third-down defense. It's a good foundation to build on, but they weren't really a scary unit either. They were 29th in takeaways, 27th in interception percentage and 21st in sacks.
Essentially, the Falcons were good on a down-to-down basis, but they didn't force many errors or make many plays. That's a hard way to live and the biggest problem is they didn't do much to get better from a personnel standpoint. After picking Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick, they used their next four picks on defense, but a premium addition in free agency or the draft would make it easier to feel good about them taking a step forward.
How They Can Improve
The Falcons are essentially banking on continuity and coaching to take them to the next level. Calais Campbell and Jeff Okudah are the biggest losses. However, the familiar names will have to learn a new scheme under new head coach Raheem Morris and defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake.
Getting top-range-of-outcome performances from their rookies would help too. Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus could play a lot of snaps early on the defensive line while Bralen Trice needs to chip in right away on the edge.
The only clear path to the Falcons not becoming a playoff team next season lies in the hands of the defense not playing well. Atlanta will rely on young players to step up, including second-year cornerback Clark Phillips III and second-year edge rusher Zach Harrison.
With the emphasis on the defensive line in this year's draft, it is safe to assume that they will use a Moneyball-like approach to create a pass rush from the interior and rely on development from guys like Arnold Ebiketie.
However, relying on that much youth and development does not foster much optimism in many circles outside of Atlanta.
