Falcons’ 2024 Collapse: Blank Demands Improvement in 2025

Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank didn’t mince words when addressing the team’s late-season meltdown in 2024. After a promising 6-3 start and a two-game NFC South lead, the Falcons imploded with a 2-6 finish, extending their playoff drought to seven consecutive seasons.

Key Factors in Atlanta’s Downfall

• Quarterback Struggles: High-profile free agent Kirk Cousins ($90M guaranteed) regressed midseason, throwing 8 INTs with 0 TDs during a four-game skid, forcing rookie Michael Penix Jr. (2024 No. 8 pick) into the starting role by Week 16.
• Defensive Woes: Coordinator Jimmy Lake was replaced by ex-Jets DC Jeff Ulbrich, who previously worked with HC Raheem Morris under Dan Quinn. Blank emphasized defensive fixes in the draft: “The emphasis… will be on the defensive side.”
• Front Office Pressure: Despite supporting continuity, Blank issued a “very clear” warning to GM Terry Fontenot (0 winning seasons in 4 years) and Morris, now entering his second full season.

Reasons for Optimism in 2025

• Youth Movement: Penix joins offensive cornerstones like RB Bijan Robinson and WR Drake London.
• Defensive Reinforcements: New edge rusher Leonard Floyd (ex-Rams/49ers) bolsters a unit that released longtime DT Grady Jarrett due to cap constraints.

“Teams that have long-term sustainability between coaches and GMs—and the right QB—succeed,” Blank noted, hinting at patience but demanding results.