- Joined
- May 8, 2002
- Posts
- 396,590
- Reaction score
- 43
The Atlanta Falcons have been more active in the second wave of NFL free agency, adding two new starters over the last two days. Shortly after signing veteran safety Jordan Fuller, the team added Pro Bowl return specialist Jamal Agnew. Fuller can step in for free agent Justin Simmons while Agnew can take over for Avery Williams.
Defensive lineman Morgan Fox should help replace Falcons legend Grady Jarrett and Mike Hughes returns to his starting post opposite A.J. Terrell in the secondary. Here's a look at our updated post-free agency starting lineup projections for Atlanta in 2025.
After a strong finish in 2024, Michael Penix Jr. looks like the quarterback of the future for this Falcons team. Penix showed a good mix of poise and aggression during his rookie year. With a full offseason to prepare as Atlanta's QB1, the former top-10 pick will do wonders for the team's many offensive playmakers.
Speaking of those playmakers, Robinson is about as good as it gets at the running back position. The former Texas star made the Pro Bowl after an incredible 2024 campaign in Atlanta. Robinson is just as big a threat in the passing game as he is in the running game, and he finished third in the NFL with1,456 yards last season.
London recorded his first 1,000-yard season in 2024. Entering his fourth year, expect the former USC star to put up monster numbers with Penix throwing him the ball. The physical nature of London's game pairs well with Penix's aggressiveness, which was on display in the season finale.
Mooney nearly recorded his second 1,000-yard season in 2024 and his future is bright in Zac Robinson's offense. His ability to get separation helps open things up for London and the rest of the team's weapons. He should only be better during his second season in Atlanta.
McCloud had his ups and downs last season but still produced at a career level. The former 49ers wideout is the clear-cut No. 3 receiver entering the 2025 season. Agnew isn't a threat to take McCloud's spot at receiver, but he gives the team more depth in the slot.
Pitts has been spotted out with his Falcons teammates, which bodes well for his future in Atlanta. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Pitts has a chance to re-establish himself this season. Perhaps more consistent QB play will help him regain his rookie form.
Woerner is a solid blocker and a valuable piece to Atlanta's running game. You won't hear his name called much as a receiver, but there's more to playing tight end than catching passes.
Matthews signed a two-year extension that keeps him in Atlanta through the 2028 season. The veteran left tackle has been a consistent anchor to the offensive line for most of his NFL career. That won't change as long as he's in Atlanta.
While Bergeron tends to be the forgotten man up front, he's developed into a quality left guard over his first two NFL seasons. He's a monster in the running game and is improving as a pass protector.
Neuzil received a right of refusal tender from Atlanta, meaning he's likely to return in 2025 and start at center. The former undrafted free agent has developed nicely and will finally get his chance to prove himself as the starting center. he appeared in eight games last season when Drew Dalman was injured.
Lindstrom is arguably the best right guard in the NFL and Atlanta's best offensive lineman. He made the Pro Bowl again last season and doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon. It doesn't get much better Lindstrom in the running game.
McGary, a former first-round pick, overcame some early career struggles to develop into a quality starter. He's dominant in the running game and while he still occasionally struggles in pass protection, McGary is a valuable part of the offensive line.
We initially had Ta'Quon Graham starting in this spot, but Fox is more likely to start based on the contract he signed (two-year, $8.5 million). It won't be easy replacing Grady Jarrett, but Fox has some starting experience and I expect the team to use a heavy rotation up front this season.
Onyemata is still a quality interior defensive lineman but he'll have to step up this season to help make up for the losses of Jarrett and Eddie Goldman. The veteran defensive lineman is still a quality starter and will help the team transition to Jeff Ulrbich's scheme in 2025.
The 2024 second-round pick had an underwhelming rookie season but he didn't get much of a chance to prove himself. The former Clemson standout could play a key role in 2025, likely as a starter in Jeff Ulbrich's defense. When he did get on the field last season, there was a lot to like.
Floyd may not be the player he once was, but the team desperately needs someone to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The former 49ers edge rusher has at least 8.5 sacks in five straight seasons. He's a good short-term option to replace Matthew Judon and brings some veteran leadership to a team that needs it.
Elliss is another former Saints player who followed Ryan Nielsen to Atlanta last year. The son of former Detroit Lions defensive lineman Luther Elliss, Kaden Elliss had something of a breakout season in 2024. The versatile inside linebacker can affect the game in a multitude of ways. He should be back in the middle of Atlanta's defense next season.
Deablo is the wild card in our starting lineup projection. Even though I expect Troy Andersen to be in the mix here, the Falcons gave Deablo a two-year, $14 million contract when they had very little money. For those reasons, I give him a slight edge over Andersen.
Ebiketie was criticized early in his career but seems to be coming into his own. The former Penn State standout has recorded six sacks in each of the last two seasons and should be a key part of the Falcons defense going forward. Ebiketie could potentially earn a contract extension if he plays well in 2024.
Terrell had a nice season in 2024 and should continue to be a staple of the Falcons secondary again in 2025. The former first-round pick doesn't get a ton of interceptions, but he's someone who can neutralize the opponent's No. 1 wide receiver most weeks. His extension is looking more affordable as the cornerback market continues to grow.
Hughes played well for much of the season and was rewarded with a new three-year, $18 million contract to remain in Atlanta. He's not exactly an elite No. 2 cornerback, but he's an affordable option who can hold his own. That's money well spent.
Assuming the team doesn't re-sign Dee Alford, I think Phillips will get his chance to start in the slot next season. Atlanta signed cornerback Mike Ford in free agency, but I don't think he will overtake Phillips for the nickel spot in 2025. Keith Taylor should play more of a special teams role but don't rule him out.
Jessie Bates is one of the best playmaking safeties in the NFL and should continue to be next season now that Atlanta has added Fuller. He played well despite a lack of pressure from Atlanta's front seven last season. Fuller seems like a better fit next to Bates, which bodes well for the secondary next season.
The Falcons signed Fuller as a sensible replacement for Justin Simmons. The 27-year-old played for Falcons head coach Raheem Morris in Los Angeles for three seasons, winning a Super Bowl together in 2021. This move to sign Fuller likely keeps DeMarcco Hellams in a reserve/third safety role this season. Considering Hellams' injury, that may not be a bad thing.
Agnew is a former All-Pro return specialist, who's handled kick and punt return duties for much of his career. He can also contribute as a receiver, but will primarily be featured on special teams. Not only does he fill a need with Avery Williams signing with the Eagles, but Agnew has experience playing for Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams in Detroit.
Koo had an up-and-down season in 2024 as he fought through an injury. Considering the veteran kicker has been remarkably consistent throughout his time in Atlanta, it's a safe bet that he will bounce back in 2025.
Pinion is one of the more underrated punters in the NFL. If you don't hear his name, that just means he's doing his job.
McCloud will likely take over both the kick and punt return duties next season since Avery Williams signed with the Philadelphia
McCullough was the first player Atlanta re-signed in free agency. The veteran quietly does his job, which is all you can ask for out of any long snapper.
Use our Falcons 2025 free agency tracker to stay up to date with every signing.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons starting lineup: Jamal Agnew takes over at KR
Continue reading...
Defensive lineman Morgan Fox should help replace Falcons legend Grady Jarrett and Mike Hughes returns to his starting post opposite A.J. Terrell in the secondary. Here's a look at our updated post-free agency starting lineup projections for Atlanta in 2025.
QB1: Michael Penix Jr.
You must be registered for see images
After a strong finish in 2024, Michael Penix Jr. looks like the quarterback of the future for this Falcons team. Penix showed a good mix of poise and aggression during his rookie year. With a full offseason to prepare as Atlanta's QB1, the former top-10 pick will do wonders for the team's many offensive playmakers.
RB: Bijan Robinson
Speaking of those playmakers, Robinson is about as good as it gets at the running back position. The former Texas star made the Pro Bowl after an incredible 2024 campaign in Atlanta. Robinson is just as big a threat in the passing game as he is in the running game, and he finished third in the NFL with1,456 yards last season.
WR: Drake London
London recorded his first 1,000-yard season in 2024. Entering his fourth year, expect the former USC star to put up monster numbers with Penix throwing him the ball. The physical nature of London's game pairs well with Penix's aggressiveness, which was on display in the season finale.
WR: Darnell Mooney
Mooney nearly recorded his second 1,000-yard season in 2024 and his future is bright in Zac Robinson's offense. His ability to get separation helps open things up for London and the rest of the team's weapons. He should only be better during his second season in Atlanta.
WR: Ray-Ray McCloud
McCloud had his ups and downs last season but still produced at a career level. The former 49ers wideout is the clear-cut No. 3 receiver entering the 2025 season. Agnew isn't a threat to take McCloud's spot at receiver, but he gives the team more depth in the slot.
TE: Kyle Pitts
Pitts has been spotted out with his Falcons teammates, which bodes well for his future in Atlanta. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Pitts has a chance to re-establish himself this season. Perhaps more consistent QB play will help him regain his rookie form.
TE: Charlie Woerner
Woerner is a solid blocker and a valuable piece to Atlanta's running game. You won't hear his name called much as a receiver, but there's more to playing tight end than catching passes.
LT: Jake Matthews
Matthews signed a two-year extension that keeps him in Atlanta through the 2028 season. The veteran left tackle has been a consistent anchor to the offensive line for most of his NFL career. That won't change as long as he's in Atlanta.
LG: Matthew Bergeron
While Bergeron tends to be the forgotten man up front, he's developed into a quality left guard over his first two NFL seasons. He's a monster in the running game and is improving as a pass protector.
C: Ryan Neuzil* (tendered)
Neuzil received a right of refusal tender from Atlanta, meaning he's likely to return in 2025 and start at center. The former undrafted free agent has developed nicely and will finally get his chance to prove himself as the starting center. he appeared in eight games last season when Drew Dalman was injured.
RG: Chris Lindstrom
Lindstrom is arguably the best right guard in the NFL and Atlanta's best offensive lineman. He made the Pro Bowl again last season and doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon. It doesn't get much better Lindstrom in the running game.
RT: Kaleb McGary
McGary, a former first-round pick, overcame some early career struggles to develop into a quality starter. He's dominant in the running game and while he still occasionally struggles in pass protection, McGary is a valuable part of the offensive line.
DL: Morgan Fox
We initially had Ta'Quon Graham starting in this spot, but Fox is more likely to start based on the contract he signed (two-year, $8.5 million). It won't be easy replacing Grady Jarrett, but Fox has some starting experience and I expect the team to use a heavy rotation up front this season.
DT: David Onyemata
Onyemata is still a quality interior defensive lineman but he'll have to step up this season to help make up for the losses of Jarrett and Eddie Goldman. The veteran defensive lineman is still a quality starter and will help the team transition to Jeff Ulrbich's scheme in 2025.
DL: Ruke Orhorhoro
The 2024 second-round pick had an underwhelming rookie season but he didn't get much of a chance to prove himself. The former Clemson standout could play a key role in 2025, likely as a starter in Jeff Ulbrich's defense. When he did get on the field last season, there was a lot to like.
OLB: Leonard Floyd
You must be registered for see images
Floyd may not be the player he once was, but the team desperately needs someone to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The former 49ers edge rusher has at least 8.5 sacks in five straight seasons. He's a good short-term option to replace Matthew Judon and brings some veteran leadership to a team that needs it.
LB: Kaden Elliss
Elliss is another former Saints player who followed Ryan Nielsen to Atlanta last year. The son of former Detroit Lions defensive lineman Luther Elliss, Kaden Elliss had something of a breakout season in 2024. The versatile inside linebacker can affect the game in a multitude of ways. He should be back in the middle of Atlanta's defense next season.
LB: Divine Deablo
Deablo is the wild card in our starting lineup projection. Even though I expect Troy Andersen to be in the mix here, the Falcons gave Deablo a two-year, $14 million contract when they had very little money. For those reasons, I give him a slight edge over Andersen.
OLB: Arnold Ebiketie
Ebiketie was criticized early in his career but seems to be coming into his own. The former Penn State standout has recorded six sacks in each of the last two seasons and should be a key part of the Falcons defense going forward. Ebiketie could potentially earn a contract extension if he plays well in 2024.
CB: A.J. Terrell
Terrell had a nice season in 2024 and should continue to be a staple of the Falcons secondary again in 2025. The former first-round pick doesn't get a ton of interceptions, but he's someone who can neutralize the opponent's No. 1 wide receiver most weeks. His extension is looking more affordable as the cornerback market continues to grow.
CB: Mike Hughes
Hughes played well for much of the season and was rewarded with a new three-year, $18 million contract to remain in Atlanta. He's not exactly an elite No. 2 cornerback, but he's an affordable option who can hold his own. That's money well spent.
Nickel CB: Clark Phillips III
Assuming the team doesn't re-sign Dee Alford, I think Phillips will get his chance to start in the slot next season. Atlanta signed cornerback Mike Ford in free agency, but I don't think he will overtake Phillips for the nickel spot in 2025. Keith Taylor should play more of a special teams role but don't rule him out.
FS: Jessie Bates III
Jessie Bates is one of the best playmaking safeties in the NFL and should continue to be next season now that Atlanta has added Fuller. He played well despite a lack of pressure from Atlanta's front seven last season. Fuller seems like a better fit next to Bates, which bodes well for the secondary next season.
SS: Jordan Fuller
The Falcons signed Fuller as a sensible replacement for Justin Simmons. The 27-year-old played for Falcons head coach Raheem Morris in Los Angeles for three seasons, winning a Super Bowl together in 2021. This move to sign Fuller likely keeps DeMarcco Hellams in a reserve/third safety role this season. Considering Hellams' injury, that may not be a bad thing.
KR/PR: Jamal Agnew
You must be registered for see images attach
Agnew is a former All-Pro return specialist, who's handled kick and punt return duties for much of his career. He can also contribute as a receiver, but will primarily be featured on special teams. Not only does he fill a need with Avery Williams signing with the Eagles, but Agnew has experience playing for Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams in Detroit.
K: Younghoe Koo
Koo had an up-and-down season in 2024 as he fought through an injury. Considering the veteran kicker has been remarkably consistent throughout his time in Atlanta, it's a safe bet that he will bounce back in 2025.
P: Bradley Pinion
Pinion is one of the more underrated punters in the NFL. If you don't hear his name, that just means he's doing his job.
KR/PR: Ray-Ray McCloud
McCloud will likely take over both the kick and punt return duties next season since Avery Williams signed with the Philadelphia
LS: Liam McCullough
McCullough was the first player Atlanta re-signed in free agency. The veteran quietly does his job, which is all you can ask for out of any long snapper.
Use our Falcons 2025 free agency tracker to stay up to date with every signing.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons starting lineup: Jamal Agnew takes over at KR
Continue reading...
