Atlanta Falcons 2008 Season Preview

The Atlanta Falcons will enter 2008 with a young team and hopes of starting fresh in the NFC.

Atlanta Falcons Preview: Overview

Last season, the Atlanta Falcons struggled without star quarterback Michael Vick. Unfortunately for the Atlanta Falcons, Michael Vick is gone and they have to find a way to win. In 2007 the Atlanta Falcons struggled to find scores, averaging just over 16 points per game, the second lowest average in the NFC while their defense allowed about 26 points per contest. The Atlanta Falcons finished the season with a disappointing 4-12 record at the bottom of the NFC South Division. The Atlanta Falcons managed to win only one game against an opponent with a winning record. That win came in the last game of the season against the Seattle Seahawks whose best players only played one half. The game became the bright side of an otherwise dismal season. Third-string QB Chris Redman had a stellar game as the team ended a forgettable season on a high note.

Atlanta Falcons Preview: Offseason

Following the 2007 season, the Atlanta Falcons cleaned house and released eight players including QB Byron Leftwich, TE Alge Crumpler, and RB Warrick Dunn. The Atlanta Falcons also traded CB DeAngelo Hall to the Oakland Raiders. Desperately in need of a passer, the Atlanta Falcons took Matt Ryan from Boston College with the third pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. Matt Ryan is a composed QB who works well under pressure. The Atlanta Falcons signed Matt Ryan to an astronomical contract, causing much stir in the NFL. The young QB Matt Ryan has a lot to live up to in 2008. The Atlanta Falcons also signed RB Michael Turner who is expected to take over the starting spot which was vacated by Warrick Dunn who departed for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With the starting WR out with a hamstring injury and WR Joe Horn sitting out in hopes of being traded, the Atlanta Falcons are turning to veteran WR Michael Jenkins to lead the receivers.

Atlanta Falcons Preview: Offense

With the addition of power rusher Michael Turner and with dangerous tailback Jerious Norwood looking for an increased role in the offense, the Atlanta Falcons are likely to run a lot this season. Versatile tailback Jerious Norwood expects to see snaps at multiple positions. Veteran WR Michael Jenkins, who spent the past few seasons sitting behind Roddy White and Joe Horn, is expected to see a lot of snaps this season and is an excellent blocker for the rushing game. If the Atlanta Falcons can get their running game off of the ground it will open up their passing game, and with Michael Jenkins’ blocking skills, the Atlanta Falcons are a threat to do just that. The Atlanta Falcons hope that Matt Ryan has strengthened his upper body in order to gain control of his long ball. At Boston College, Matt Ryan’s inconsistent long throws were considered the weakest point of his game. If opponents figure out early that Matt Ryan cannot complete his long throws, the Atlanta Falcons running game will be in a lot of trouble. It is a scary thought, but the Atlanta Falcons offense depends on the generally shaky arm of Matt Ryan. The Atlanta Falcons hope that his awareness and calm under pressure will give the rookie QB some confidence.

Atlanta Falcons Preview: Defense

Rookie Chevis Jackson will be asked to fill in as a possible replacement for DeAngelo Hall at cornerback. Chevis Jackson will be competing with CB Chris Houston for the starting spot and for now it is Chevis Jackson working out with the first team. Chris Houston is the more experienced CB but the Atlanta Falcons coaching staff is looking to give the more dedicated players more opportunities, and Chevis Jackson is a highly intense defensive player. It is also likely that rookie LB Curtis Lofton will be given an opportunity to start. Touted as one of the nation’s most explosive hitters, Curtis Lofton is praised for his good speed and good hands. The Atlanta Hawks defense will look to young players to make plays for them in 2008.

Atlanta Falcons: Special Teams

RB Jerious Norwood will return as the Atlanta Falcons kick returner. Jerious Norwood is a tough matchup in open space where his speed and agility give him enough room to maneuver. WR Adam Jennings will help with kick return duties and is also likely to return as the Atlanta Falcons primary punt returner in 2008. Look for the two young players to play an integral role in getting the Atlanta Falcons offense decent field position. The Atlanta Falcons beefed up their special teams by signing record-setting veteran K Jason Elam, an upgrade that will allow P Michael Koenan to focus on punting alone. In 2007, the Atlanta Falcons poor long-distance kicking was unable to make up for a lack of offense but in 2008, Jason Elam will change that if he can get kick attempts. Jason Elam just may provide the experience the young Atlanta Falcons need and give them a much needed boost on the scoreboard.

Atlanta Falcons Preview: Outlook

By showing players that starting spots are up for grabs, the Atlanta Falcons are committing to the rebuilding process and attempting to move out of the shadow of Michael Vick’s current legal issues. With rookies competing for starting slots at WR and CB, the Atlanta Falcons are sure to have a deep team that can run and jump with the best in the NFL while thrilling fans at the Georgia Dome. The young Atlanta Falcons will be an exhilarating team to watch in 2008.