The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
1. Atlanta Falcons
2017 record: 11-7 New faces: OG Brandon Fusco, rookie WR Calvin Ridley, DT Terrell McClain, rookie DT Deadrin Senat, TE Logan Paulsen, FB Ricky Ortiz, CB Justin Bethel, QB coach Greg Knapp, RB coach Bernie Parmalee. Key losses: DT Dontari Poe, DE Adrian Clayborn, WR Taylor Gabriel, FB Derrick Coleman, TE Levine Toilolo. Strengths: Falcons were highest-scoring team in league two seasons ago, but struggled to middle-of-pack showing in firsty ear under offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian. With plenty of weapons surrounding QB Matt Ryan — most notably WR Julio Jones — and Fusco bulking up interior of line, Atlanta is expecting significant improvement in Year 2 under Sarkisian. He’ll likely be calling plays from field, where he’s most comfortable, now that Knapp is on board to watch things from booth. Weaknesses: K Matt Bryant has been one of team’s most reliable players, but he’s 43 years old and battled nagging injuries during preseason. Falcons sparked more concern when they signed former Raiders K Giorgio Tavecchio before final pres eason game, though Quinn insisted Bryant was good to go. Expectations: Time is now for Atlanta, especially on offensive side. Ryan is 33, Jones is 29, Freeman is coming off injury-plagued season, and Coleman could be free agent after season. Clearly, window is narrowing for franchise that is still scarred by blowing 25-point lead in Super Bowl two seasons ago.