Just as there are surprise cuts every offseason, every year at least one Falcons player comes out of nowhere and takes the team by storm.
Here are a few candidates that may have a breakout season in 2019.
1. LB Foye Oluokun
Given the fact that the linebacker position was not addressed in the draft is a vote of confidence for Oluokun. When Deion Jones was injured in 2018, Oluokun was the best linebacker on the team. This year, Oluokun should see first-team snaps at weak-side linebacker as well as being a sub linebacker in nickel. Assuming reports are correct and he’s taken a big step forward, the Falcons may have a bright future ahead at weak-side linebacker.
2. DE Takk McKinley
With a thin edge rotation, players like John Cominsky will have to step up, but Takk McKinley’s usage should increase too. In a radio interview with 92.9 The Game, Kelsey Conway said “Takk came back lighter and faster. This is the first offseason that he’s been healthy and coach Quinn says he’s the first guy that stood out to him.” It sounds like Takk has had a phenomenal offseason and he has promised at least 10 sacks this season. With Quinn giving coaching him up close, McKinley should have every opportunity to be a sack champion.
3. RB Ito Smith
With Tevin Coleman leaving for San Francisco to reunite with former offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, Ito Smith becomes option No. 2 in the Falcons’ backfield behind Devonta Freeman. During mandatory minicamp, Smith was one of a few guys that stood out to coach Quinn. Smith, being as elusive as he is, makes him a great fit for Dirk Koetter’s offense, which likes to utilize running backs. The Falcons also have an upgraded line and Freeman missed 14 games last season, so Smith might be in for some legitimate playing time.
4. DT Deadrin Senat
Now that Steven Means is out for the year with an Achilles injury, Atlanta’s 4-3 defensive end rotation becomes even more thin than it already was. This may lead to more 3-4 base looks which would respectively put Senat at the 5 technique spot as a 3-4 defensive end or at nose tackle. Senat has already proven that he is solid against the run at the 1 technique. If he can add the ability to rush the passer, Senat immediately becomes a threatening piece for the defensive line.
