"Entering the 2025 season, expectations were elevated for the Falcons. The first full year with Michael Penix Jr. atop the quarterback depth chart coupled with a renovated defense brought with it the possibility for a return to the playoffs. Atlanta's most recent winning season came in 2017. Since then, the team has been mired in mediocrity (at best) while struggling through the post- Matt Ryan era."
"Owner Arthur Blank is in the process of evaluating the Falcons' football operations. He will continue to do so through the remainder of the season before deciding on any changes along the sidelines and/or in the front office. The veteran owner offered an endorsement of both Morris and Fontenot in August, but things have not gone according to plan since then."
"Injuries to Penix - a well-documented concern in his case upon entering the NFL - and others on offense have hindered the Falcons on that side of the ball. The team's defense has, on the other hand, enjoyed a resurgence in the pass rush department after years of struggling on that front. That is of course thanks in large part to the pair of first-round rookies the Falcons have along the edge."
Expectations were elevated entering 2025 with Michael Penix Jr. expected to start his first full season and a renovated defense promising a playoff push. The Falcons have not had a winning season since 2017 and remain mired in mediocrity in the post-Matt Ryan era. Offensive injuries, including to Penix, have hindered team performance. The defense has improved its pass rush, boosted by two first-round edge rookies. GM Terry Fontenot traded Atlanta's 2026 first-round pick to acquire Jalon Walker after selecting James Pearce, reflecting missed expectations. Owner Arthur Blank is evaluating coaching and front-office leadership.
Read at Pro Football Rumors
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