Terry Fontenot General Manager | Atlanta Falcons Website
Terry Fontenot General Manager | Atlanta Falcons Website
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – The Atlanta Falcons concluded the previous season with their highest team sack total since 2004. However, following key departures and new additions, questions persist regarding the team's ability to generate a pass rush.
The strength of Atlanta's pass rush appears to be its depth and versatility. This suggests that multiple players may contribute to the sack count this season, prompting an intriguing question: Who will lead the Falcons in sacks in 2024? Several writers have weighed in on this topic.
Tori McElhaney anticipates Arnold Ebiketie emerging as a key player. "His development has been gradual," she noted, emphasizing his potential as seen during the 2022 NFL Draft. McElhaney recalled a conversation with Falcons assistant director of college scouting Dwuane Jones, who highlighted Ebiketie's steady growth and suggested that he might finally realize his potential this year.
Will McFadden expressed surprise that Grady Jarrett has only led the Falcons in sacks once in his nine-year career but predicts he could do so again despite a serious injury. "Although the Falcons are switching back to a base 3-4 defense... I think Jarrett is still poised to thrive," McFadden stated, pointing out how defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake could create advantageous situations for him.
Terrin Waack acknowledged the challenge posed by last season's sack leaders Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree no longer being with the team. Waack believes inside linebacker Kaden Elliss could step up given his past performance with both the Saints and Falcons. "Now, with a season under his belt... watch Elliss truly thrive," she commented.
Amna Subhan sees an opportunity for Zach Harrison following Campbell's departure. Harrison recorded three sacks last year towards the end of the season and benefited from learning directly from Campbell. Subhan suggests Harrison's snap count will increase significantly this year, potentially leading him to top the team's sack tally.
The consensus among these writers highlights several candidates who could emerge as key contributors to Atlanta’s pass rush in 2024.
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