While the Falcons‘ level of success in 2025 will depend on a number of factors, the most impactful will likely be quarterback Michael Penix Jr.‘s ability to lead their offense. But, it won’t be all on his shoulders.
Yesterday, Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports compiled a list of 50 “under-the-radar” players “who could shape the 2025 season.” Two Falcons appeared on the list, with one on each side of the ball and at very different stages in their careers. One will be involved in protecting their young quarterback and the other will be responsible for putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Falcons Newcomer Leonard Floyd Takes Spot No. 36
On the other side of the ball, the Falcons front office made it clear that improving one of the league’s worst pass rushes would be a priority. Outside of their two first-round picks, Atlanta invested in their pass rush in the form of a 1-year, $10 million deal for veteran Leonard Floyd.
While those are not eye-popping numbers, Floyd’s performance has trailed off a bit in the past few seasons. But, the Falcons’ defense will be heavily reliant on their pass rush being able to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Atlanta’s pass rush has struggled mightily in recent years, finishing near the bottom of the league in both sacks and pressure rate, according to ESPN Analytics. They’ve only racked up a total of 112 sacks over the past four seasons, according to ESPN. For reference, the Ravens boast one of the league’s best pass rushes, racking up 114 sacks over the past two seasons.
Pereles wrote that he wouldn’t be surprised “if Floyd outproduced either or both” of the Falcons’ rookie first-round pass rushers.
“He’s had at least 8.5 sacks each of the last four seasons, and while that may not sound like much, the Falcons haven’t had a player with more than 6.5 in a season over that span,” Pereles wrote.
If Floyd can generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and help his rookie teammates develop as pass rushers, the Falcons could avoid another season near the bottom of the league in sacks.
With a more effective pass rush leading to more third-down stops, the Falcons offense will likely have better starting field position and won’t need to put up as many points to stay in games.
Atlanta’s New Center Appears at No. 30 on the List
The guy snapping to Michael Penix Jr. will have some big shoes to fill. Following the departure of Drew Dalman, one of the league’s top centers, third-year center Ryan Neuzil will now be responsible for shoring up the middle of the Falcons’ offensive line.
Dalman missed a considerable amount of time in 2024, but he performed exceptionally well, especially in the run game. He earned a PFF run blocking grade of 79.8, good for 5th in the NFL. His PFF pass blocking grade was only 21st in the league at 66.6.
Dalman’s replacement, Ryan Neuzil, stepped in and played even more snaps in 2024. While Neuzil served as a good bridge, the Falcons missed Dalman up the middle. Neuzil only allowed 1 sack across 578 snaps. But, he committed 7 penalties, which ranked 55th out of 64 centers last season, according to PFF.
Unfortunately, Neuzil only played a total of 5 snaps across the Falcons’ final 3 games of the season. So, there wasn’t much time for him to build a connection with Michael Penix Jr. But, on a positive note, they’ve had a full offseason to work together, and they look to be gelling well.
Bijan Robinson played well consistently throughout last season, but he finished the year exceptionally well. With Michael Penix Jr. at quarterback, Robinson racked up 354 yards and 6 touchdowns during the final 3 games.
“Atlanta had a historically good running game, and the center-quarterback connection is especially important for young quarterbacks, putting a lot of weight on Neuzil’s shoulders,” Pereles wrote.
With so much riding on the success of Michael Penix Jr. serving as Kirk Cousins‘ replacement at quarterback, the Falcons’ ability to protect Penix and run the ball effectively will be paramount.
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