The Falcons defense was not good by almost any measure in 2018. They gave up 26.4 points per game, good for only No. 25 in the NFL. Atlanta also ranked No. 28 in yards allowed and finished No. 31 in defensive DVOA, according to Football Outsiders.
Now just imagine how much worse the unit would have been if not for the efforts of defensive back Damontae Kazee. After the early injuries to Ricardo Allen, Keanu Neal and Deion Jones, it looked like the Falcons defense might completely collapse and become arguably the league’s worst. Along with defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, Kazee helped keep the ship afloat with some solid and occasionally brilliant play at free safety.
According to Pro Football Focus, Kazee was their highest graded safety in the NFC South division for the season, ranking ahead of Vonn Bell and Marcus Williams of the Saints. Sharrod Neasman had a tough act to follow at strong safety in place of Neal, but he was good enough to crack the top five, as well.
Next season, the Falcons probably won’t see much of either Kazee or Neasman at safety. With Allen and Neal projected to start upon their return, Neasman will return to the bench. Meanwhile, Kazee is expected to take Brian Poole’s position as the primary slot cornerback.
