The Atlanta Falcons are coming off one of the most disappointed seasons in franchise history, going from an NFC playoff appearance in 2012 to a Top 10 Draft pick this May. These types of seasons elicit some changes, whether warranted or not. The Falcons were active this offseason, but they were more concerned with resigning key pieces than making a big splash on offense. However, locking up center Joe Hawley may have been the best move the team made all offseason. The Falcons still have much work to do on the offensive line, which let quarterback Matt Ryan down last season. Here’s what the lineup may look like come training camp.
New starter: Levine Toilolo
It’s hard to ignore the hole at the tight end position left back soon-to-be Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. Gonzalez gave the Falcons five pretty good years and now a relative unknown in Toilolo is taking his place. Toilolo had just 55 yards and two touchdowns on 11 catches last years. These are numbers most starting tight ends boast. However, at 6-foot-8 and 265 pounds, how could Falcons fans not be excited? Toilolo is three inches taller than Gonzalez and, if he can be the least bit mobile, should be able to see a considerable amount of production this year. The Falcons could, though draft a tight end that could compete for the job, but Toilolo owns the spot right now.
Area of Improvement
The Falcons struggled mightily on the right side of the line last season and with Jon Asamoah joining on at right guard, one spot has been filled. However, the battle for right tackle consists of a few sub-par choices. Lamar Holmes and Terren Jones will be fighting for the spot held by Jeremy Trueblood last year. I have holmes winning this battle, but it could very well be Jones. Either way, the Falcons should look at the draft for help at this position.
Potential breakout star: Joe Hawley
Hawley sat behind Peter Koz some of last year, but showed signs that he could potential dethrone him after starting the last seven years. The Falcons seemed to agree with that sentiment when they signed Hawley to a two-year deal this offseason. If the Falcons thought Konz was the answer at the position, they would have let Hawley go. Hawley has the strength to be a quality center, and he’ll get the chance to show it this season.
On his way out: Roddy White
This dilemma could go two ways with White: either he could play well this season show the Falcons he deserves the contract extension, or he could fall to injuries and lack of production and become a reserve. Harry Douglas showed his ability at the No. 1 position last year, catching 85 passes for 1,067 yards. Even Devin Hester could see time at wide receiver ahead of White if he struggles to stay healthy and produce. However, White could prove me wrong and become the reliable receiver he once was.