The Atlanta Falcons have been striving to return to the playoffs since 2017, despite facing setbacks, including the devastating 25-point loss they experienced on February 5, 2017. However, supporters of the Falcons remain optimistic, as there are signs of positive change for the team. Arthur Blank, the team’s owner, has a clear vision for bringing the Falcons back to their former glory in the NFC South, a position they last held in 2016. Many fans are hopeful that this change will occur by 2023, making it an exciting season to watch the Falcons this year, especially from a Fantasy Football standpoint!
[metabet_core_game_tile query=”fbp/atlanta_falcons” size=”350×300″ site_id=”lastwordonsports”]
Atlanta Falcons Fantasy Football Outlook for 2023
Arthur Smith Is Building Something
Perhaps January 15th 2021, marked a turning point for the Falcons as they hired Arthur Smith as the team’s 18th head coach. Arthur Smith is a hardnosed-styled coach who loves the run the ball early and often. Last season, the Falcons ran the ball 559 times which was the most in the NFL. With some key additions to not only the offensive line but in the backfield as well, there is no reason but to believe the Falcons will be amongst the leaders again in rushing attempts.
What does this mean for fantasy football? This group that Arthur Smith has will be intriguing to watch and might surprise this season for fantasy too.
Ground And Pound
When finding a dependable running back for your fantasy football team in 2023., your best bet is to focus on the team with the most running plays. The Atlanta Falcons are an excellent choice, especially with the addition of rookie sensation Bijan Robinson.
This all-purpose 215-pound running back boasts an impressive 96 score on Next Gen Stats. Tyler Allgreir ran for over 1,000 yards in his rookie season and is also a top contender. Coach Arthur Smith has clarified that he prefers a strong running game, as evidenced by their rookie’s 210 carries last year. If you’re lucky enough to have either one of these running backs on your fantasy roster, consider picking up both to ensure a reliable workhorse running back in the event of an injury.
The offensive line is one of the top units in the NFL, providing ample opportunities for running backs to make big plays.
The Receivers That Will Help the Falcons Fly
Throughout the years, the Falcons have had a plethora of exceptional choices for both receiver and tight end. In the previous year’s draft, the Falcons secured Drake London, a robust and physical receiver whose skillset perfectly aligns with the Falcons physical offense. London immediately became the go-to wide receiver and is poised to make significant strides in his sophomore season.
When seeking a top-tier fantasy wide receiver, you need someone who commands a high volume of targets. In 2023, London’s path to surpassing 135 targets is easily attainable. That could secure him a spot in the top 20 fantasy wide receivers.
Last season’s fantasy production was a complete failure due to Pitts’ injuries. Fantasy managers who drafted him were left in complete despair. It’s highly recommended to have a backup plan in case of injury in 2023. If Pitts manages to stay healthy, he will provide significant value at his current draft position for fantasy football.
Is It Ridder’s Team Now
Although the coaches did not intend for Desmond Ridder to play, he played four games last season. As a rookie, he managed fairly well with a 63.5% completion percentage and did not throw any interceptions. While he did not have as many pass attempts as some fellow quarterbacks, he did average 28.5 attempts per game. This showed that the coaching staff might have some faith in him running the Falcon’s offense.
Ridder is a good athlete who uses his 4.52 forty time to keep defenses honest. In fantasy football, you always want an advantage, and Ridder offers that with great receiving options and a good rushing upside. Targeting Ridder in a single-quarterback league may not be ideal. However, in a Two-Quarterback League, keep your eye on Ridder as a deep sleeper that offers a nice upside.
Led by a respected head coach, the Falcons are becoming a force to be reckoned with this offseason. The Falcons fantasy football outlook is intriguing as we approach training camp and preseason. Regarding fantasy football, their division presents ample opportunity for them to make a splash in 2023. Opting for a Falcon as your fantasy draft pick is a wise decision this year.
Main Image: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
