Atlanta Falcons 2024 NFL Season Preview
The Atlanta Falcons are marred in a six-season streak of missing the playoffs, winning no more than 7 games in any season. They took a large swing this offseason, most notably by signing Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins to a massive four-year deal worth $180 million ($100 million guaranteed). Marked by significant roster changes, a revamped defense, and high expectations, 2024 looks to be the Falcons’ opportunity to turn things around. Here’s a comprehensive preview of what to expect from the Falcons this season.
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Falcons Key Additions and Subtractions
Additions:
- Kirk Cousins (QB): The Falcons made a splash by signing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year deal. Cousins brings experience and stability to the quarterback position, which has been a point of concern in recent seasons.
- Michael Penix Jr. (QB): Drafted with the eighth overall pick, Penix Jr. is seen as the quarterback of the future. He will likely start the season as a backup but could see playing time depending on Cousins’ performance and health.
- Jessie Bates III (S): A major addition to the secondary, Bates is expected to bolster the Falcons’ pass defense significantly.
- Dean Pees (Defensive Coordinator): Returning to coaching, Pees is tasked with improving a defense that has struggled in recent years.
Subtractions:
- Desmond Ridder (QB): Last year’s starting quarterback was traded, paving the way for Cousins and Penix Jr. to take over.
- Jonnu Smith (TE): Released in the offseason, Smith’s departure opens up more opportunities for other tight ends like Kyle Pitts and Charlie Woerner.
Falcons 2024 Schedule
The Falcons’ 2024 regular season schedule is as follows:
- Week 1: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
- Week 2: at Philadelphia Eagles (MNF)
- Week 3: vs. New Orleans Saints
- Week 4: at Carolina Panthers
- Week 5: vs. Seattle Seahawks
- Week 6: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Week 7: vs. Arizona Cardinals
- Week 8: at San Francisco 49ers
- Week 9: vs. Chicago Bears
- Week 10: at Green Bay Packers
- Week 11: vs. Detroit Lions
- Week 12: at New York Giants
- Week 13: vs. Los Angeles Rams
- Week 14: at Baltimore Ravens
- Week 15: vs. Miami Dolphins
- Week 16: at New England Patriots
- Week 17: vs. Las Vegas Raiders
- Week 18: at Carolina Panthers.
How to Watch the Atlanta Falcons
Fans can catch the Falcons’ games through various platforms:
- Television: Games will be broadcast on networks like CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN.
- Radio: Local broadcasts will be available on 92.9 The Game (WZGC-FM).
Get all of the above channels with a subscription to Fubo: Stream NFL games live with a free trial!
Historical Information
Founded in 1965, the Atlanta Falcons have had a storied history with notable highs and lows:
- Super Bowl Appearances: 1998 (Super Bowl XXXIII) and 2016 (Super Bowl LI).
- Division Championships: NFC South titles in 2004, 2010, 2012, and 2016.
- Home Stadiums: The Falcons currently play at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which opened in 2017.
Falcons Storylines to Watch
- Kirk Cousins’ Impact: Can Cousins lead the Falcons back to the playoffs for the first time since 2017? His performance will be under the microscope, especially coming off an Achilles injury.
- Development of Michael Penix Jr.: How quickly will Penix Jr. adapt to the NFL, and will he challenge Cousins for the starting role?
- Defensive Improvements: Under new defensive coordinator Dean Pees, the Falcons aim to improve their pass rush and overall defensive performance. The transition to a 3-4 scheme will be a key focus.
- Rookie Contributions: Besides Penix Jr., other rookies like Ade Ogundeji will be expected to make immediate impacts, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
The 2024 season promises to be a pivotal one for the Atlanta Falcons, with new faces and renewed hopes aiming to steer the team back to prominence.
