In 2023, the Atlanta Falcons concluded with a record of 7-10 for the third consecutive year. This places significant pressure on various individuals throughout the organization, spanning from the management team to the players.
Here are three individuals who are under immense scrutiny and are expected to produce standout performances in the upcoming season.
Quarterback Kirk Cousins
Once the Falcons move past the humorous jabs, their focus will shift towards winning games with Cousins, whom they secured with a significant four-year, $180 million deal during this offseason. Failure to do so could result in ridicule rather than camaraderie.
Since 2017, Atlanta has failed to reach the postseason, and the acquisition of Cousins clearly aims to change that trajectory. However, there’s a potential obstacle to this plan: Cousins hasn’t consistently led his teams to playoff success in the past. Excluding the 2023 season due to his Achilles injury, Cousins, who has been a full-time starter for eight seasons, has only made the playoffs three times, with just two appearances during his tenure with the Vikings.
General manager Terry Fontenot
Falcons owner Arthur Blank opted not to hire Bill Belichick for the team’s head coaching position this offseason. Despite Blank denying claims that Belichick sought complete control over personnel decisions, this choice still increases the pressure on Fontenot to build a successful team by his fourth year.
Since becoming the team’s general manager in 2021, the Falcons have accumulated 21 victories, placing them tied with the Jaguars for the ninth lowest in the league. The 2024 NFL Draft marks his fourth successive draft with a top-10 selection. If his endeavors result in Atlanta securing another top-10 pick next year, it’s probable that this will be his final opportunity.
Tight end Kyle Pitts
Considering the players drafted after Pitts at No. 4 in the 2021 NFL Draft, his selection appears increasingly disappointing with each underwhelming season. Wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Jaylen Waddle were chosen at Nos. 5 and 6 respectively, followed by standout performers at various positions such as offensive tackle (Penei Sewell, No. 7), cornerback (Patrick Surtain II, No. 9), and edge rusher (Micah Parsons, No. 12).
In his three seasons spanning 44 games, Pitts has only managed to score six touchdowns, a figure notably lower than Lions’ 2023 rookie tight end Sam LaPorta, who recorded 10 touchdowns last season. Pitts now has a promising opportunity to showcase his abilities with Cousins as his quarterback, potentially yielding significant statistics akin to his rookie season when Matt Ryan was his primary passer.
The Falcons have until May 2 to exercise his fifth-year option, valued at $10.878 million, a move that appears probable. His performance in the upcoming season may determine whether he plays out the 2025 season under the fifth-year option or secures an extension, ensuring his long-term tenure with the team in Atlanta.
