After taking a step forward in 2023 under defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, the Falcons are staring down uncertainty - starting with Nielsen's replacement, first-year NFL coordinator Jimmy Lake, and a coaching staff full of fresh faces.Rushing the passer has often troubled the Falcons, who have 138 total sacks over the past five years, the worst mark in the NFL. They took a step forward last season, with their 42 sacks- who had 6.5 sacks apiece - signed elsewhere in free agency.
But Lake added Harrison has to show continued improvement throughout the summer, and training camp - which starts when players arrive July 24 - will be the first time Atlanta's new staff sees the former Ohio State standout in pads. Harrison and Phillips are essentially in the same spot career-wise: Hoping to build on a strong finish to their rookie years by cementing a starting job this summer. The same is true for safety
The Falcons waived Hawkins in the middle of October, and after the bye in Week 11, Hellams became a more prominent defensive figure as Nielsen turned to three-safety packages. In Weeks 15-17, Hellams played nearly three times as many snaps as Grant, all but taking over as the lead option next to Bates.This summer, Hellams has been the primary first-team safety alongside Bates, with Grant occasionally rotating in.
As such, player development becomes critical. A common idea in NFL circles is that players often take the biggest leap in their career from their rookie season to their second, be it from the lessons learned, confidence gained and everything in between.