Falcons Could Use More Help in 1 Roster Position

The Atlanta Falcons possess a defense that is developing into a formidable unit, yet there remains one position that could impede its potential: the interior defensive line. The team has suffered a significant loss in this area this offseason, as David Onyemata and Ruke Orhorhoro, who led the team in snaps at defensive tackle, have departed. Replacing the substantial playing time they provided will be a considerable challenge, particularly for a defense that now aims to advance further.

Brandon Dorlus emerges as a promising candidate. Last season, he recorded 8.5 sacks, amassed 27 tackles, and achieved 11 tackles for loss, demonstrating his solid performance. He is expected to assume a more prominent role. However, the Falcons require more than just consistent play to render their defensive front a genuine threat to opposing offenses.

The team has also included Maason Smith, acquired from Jacksonville during the trade involving Orhorhoro, as well as Zach Harrison, who managed 4.5 sacks despite limited game time due to a season-ending injury last year. Moreover, the Falcons bolstered their roster with several veterans in free agency, including defensive lineman Da Shawn Hand, who arrived in his ninth NFL season.

Nevertheless, none of these acquisitions present an immediately standout option that could drastically improve the unit. While a defense can thrive without a superstar at each position, the interior desperately needs someone who can regularly penetrate the offensive line, disrupt the run, and apply pressure on quarterbacks. The Falcons have grounds for optimism regarding their defense; yet, this does not transform the unit into a liability.

If Dorlus delivers an outstanding performance, Smith consolidates his talent, or one of the veterans reveals unanticipated resilience, the Falcons might be in a strong position.

Otherwise, this defense could become a weak point that opposing offenses exploit.