If the Atlanta Falcons hope to return to the playoffs in 2025, they need to become more consistent on defense. Last season, the team had a chance to clinch the NFC South with two games left to play.
The Falcons nearly upset the Washington Commanders in Week 17, but their defense couldn’t get a stop when it mattered. The following week, Atlanta turned in another disastrous defensive performance against Bryce Young and the Carolina Panthers, giving up 44 points in an overtime loss to close out the season.
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While most analysts will rightfully point to the pass rush as the team’s biggest issue, the secondary also had its share of issues. Atlanta finished 22nd in the league in passing yards allowed per game (224.5), and 17th in interceptions recorded (12 total).
With limited funds, the Falcons did what they could to upgrade their secondary. The team signed veteran safety Jordan Fuller in free agency, re-signed cornerbacks Mike Hughes and Dee Alford, and drafted defensive backs Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman.
It’s hard to say whether or not this unit will be better, but the team arguably has more depth and talent in the secondary. Pro Football Focus ranked all 32 NFL secondaries ahead of the 2025 season. Atlanta landed in the middle of the pack at No. 17 on PFF’s list:
The Falcons have two cornerstone pieces in safety Jessie Bates and cornerback A.J. Terrell, and they added several players this offseason to bolster the rest of the secondary. Jordan Fuller was signed, and Atlanta selected Xavier Watts in the third round of the draft to strengthen the safety spot opposite Bates. The team also hopes Mike Hughes and Dee Alford can deliver strong seasons at cornerback. — John Kosko, Pro Football Focus
Despite being ranked in the bottom half of the NFL, the Falcons secondary was still the highest-ranked unit in the NFC South. The New Orleans Saints (No. 20), the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 22) and the Carolina Panthers (No. 30) were listed below Atlanta by PFF.
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The Falcons did not re-sign safety Justin Simmons, but the former Pro Bowler didn’t have his best season. While Simmons is still a free agent, Fuller was probably a better option for a team low on cap space.
Watts and Fuller should have a nice training camp battle for the starting safety job next to Jessie Bates. The Falcons report to training camp in roughly two weeks, with their first practice coming on July 24.
– Check out our latest Falcons 53-man roster projection ahead of training camp
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons secondary ranked 17th by PFF ahead of 2025 NFL season