How Strong Was Falcons 2017 Roster? Season Recap

The 2017 Atlanta Falcons roster was a formidable team, boasting a strong lineup of players that had made a remarkable run to the Super Bowl the previous year. Under the leadership of Head Coach Dan Quinn, the Falcons were looking to build upon their successful 2016 season, where they had finished with an 11-5 record and had made it all the way to Super Bowl LI, ultimately falling to the New England Patriots in a heartbreaking overtime loss.

As the 2017 season got underway, the Falcons were considered one of the top contenders in the NFC, with a roster packed with talented players on both sides of the ball. On offense, the Falcons were led by quarterback Matt Ryan, who was coming off an MVP season in 2016. Ryan was surrounded by a talented cast of skill players, including wide receivers Julio Jones, Mohamed Sanu, and Taylor Gabriel, as well as running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman.

The Falcons’ offense was known for its high-powered attack, which had averaged over 33 points per game in 2016. While they didn’t quite reach those heights in 2017, they still put up impressive numbers, averaging over 24 points per game. However, the offense was not without its struggles, particularly in the red zone, where they often failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Falcons had a stout unit that was led by a strong pass rush and a solid secondary. The defensive line, which featured players like Vic Beasley, Grady Jarrett, and Dontari Poe, was able to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, while the secondary, which included cornerbacks Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford, was able to limit big plays and make key interceptions.

Despite the talent on the roster, the 2017 season was a bit of a rollercoaster ride for the Falcons. They got off to a strong start, winning three of their first four games, but then hit a rough patch, losing four of their next five. However, they were able to rebound and win four of their last five games, finishing the season with a 10-6 record and a spot in the playoffs.

In the postseason, the Falcons faced off against the Los Angeles Rams in the wild card round, where they came away with a 26-13 victory. However, their season would come to an end the following week, as they fell to the Philadelphia Eagles 15-10 in the divisional round.

Overall, the 2017 Falcons roster was a strong team that was capable of making a deep run in the playoffs. While they ultimately fell short of their goal of winning a Super Bowl, they still had a successful season and set the stage for future success.

Statistical Breakdown

• Offense: 24.8 points per game (8th in NFL), 364.8 total yards per game (8th in NFL)
• Defense: 19.7 points per game (8th in NFL), 327.7 total yards per game (9th in NFL)
• Turnover Margin: +3 (10th in NFL)
• Red Zone Efficiency: 53.3% (18th in NFL)

Key Players

• Matt Ryan: 4,095 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, 12 interceptions
• Julio Jones: 88 receptions, 1,444 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns
• Devonta Freeman: 865 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns
• Vic Beasley: 10 sacks, 32 tackles
• Desmond Trufant: 2 interceptions, 12 passes defensed

Conclusion

The 2017 Atlanta Falcons roster was a talented team that had the potential to make a deep run in the playoffs. While they ultimately fell short of their goal, they still had a successful season and demonstrated that they are a force to be reckoned with in the NFC. With a strong offense and a stout defense, the Falcons are a team that will be looking to build upon their success in the years to come.

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