The Atlanta Falcons, who finished 7-10 last season, are poised for a significant improvement this year. They have bolstered their roster with notable additions, including quarterback Kirk Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, and defensive standouts Matthew Judon and Justin Simmons.
A key offensive player for the Falcons is tight end Kyle Pitts, who has been recovering from a hamstring injury but was a full participant in Thursday’s practice, according to Marc Raimondi. Pitts had a productive 2023 season with 53 receptions, 667 yards, and three touchdowns. If he remains healthy, his performance could improve further with enhanced quarterback play.
TE Kyle Pitts was back to full participation at practice today #Falcons pic.twitter.com/n6q70lX6h7
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) September 5, 2024
However, Cousins is also dealing with an injury concern, as he is recovering from a torn Achilles suffered midway through last season with the Minnesota Vikings. Despite the injury, he was on track for a potential fifth Pro Bowl appearance, having thrown for 2,331 yards and 18 touchdowns with a 69.5% completion rate in eight games.
Alongside Pitts, the Falcons feature talented wide receivers Drake London and newcomer Darnell Mooney, as well as running back Bijan Robinson, who is coming off an impressive rookie season and is expected to excel.
With these upgrades and the addition of new talent, many analysts are predicting that the Falcons could finish first in the NFC South and make their first playoff appearance since the 2017 season.
