A season marred by injuries to key players leaves the Falcons’ offense looking weak as they enter 2014. Only strong play by Matt Ryan and Julio Jones can bring them back to the top of the NFC.
The 2013 did not seem to be going well for the Falcons even before Julio Jones’ season ending injury. But with the return of Jones, WR Roddy White and RB Steven Jackson from injuries, the Falcons may be able to regain some of the ground they lost in the division.
Unfortunately, the retirement of future Hall of Fame TE Tony Gonzalez will be a huge loss for the team – and it remains a position they did not address well in free agency or the draft.
The addition of Jake Matthews to the offensive line – considered by many to be the most NFL-ready rookie in the NFL – may have been a steal at #6 and will start at his natural position of Right Tackle.
The defense added some line depth with Tyson Jackson and Paul Soliai as well as 2nd round draft pick Ra’Shede Hagerman, but overall the unit needs to do a lot better than its abysmal 27th place ranking in 2013 in order to contend in the NFC South this year.
The Falcons report to training camp in Flowery Branch, Georgia on July 25.
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