There is a newfound vitality in Flowery Department, and it begins beneath heart.
With second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. formally taking the reins in Atlanta, the Falcons enter the 2025 season with actual expectations and actual firepower. Veteran Kirk Cousins, now backing up Penix on a large contract, seems snug within the mentor function, a minimum of for now.
However this yr, it is the Penix present. And it is onerous to not get enthusiastic about what’s round him.
The “core 4” of Penix Jr., Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts are anticipated to be full-go this fall, and in the event that they keep wholesome, this group has the potential to be one of the vital dynamic younger items within the NFL. Penix’s deep-ball accuracy and fast decision-making pair completely with London’s physicality, Pitts’ versatility and Bijan’s explosiveness in each the run and move recreation.
This workforce is not simply constructed for the longer term. It’s constructed to win now.
After years of inconsistency and the lingering heartbreak of blowing a 28-3 lead in Tremendous Bowl LI, followers in Atlanta have purpose to consider that is the yr. A 12- or 13-win season is not only a purpose, it is an expectation. A playoff berth? All however sure. House-field benefit? Inside attain. And if we’re being daring, which this Falcons workforce calls for, there isn’t any purpose to not point out the phrases Tremendous Bowl look and Tremendous Bowl champions.
The protection, usually the Achilles heel of previous Falcons groups, has quietly reworked into a quick, bodily and well-coached unit. With good offseason additions and progress from younger playmakers, Atlanta might lastly have a protection to match its offensive potential.
There’s a totally different feeling round this workforce. It isn’t simply hope, however perception. And in a wide-open NFC South, perception may be all of the Falcons must lastly take flight.
