NFL.com lists Falcons near the bottom of latest power rankings
An argument can be made that the Atlanta Falcons were a quarterback away from making the playoffs each of the last two seasons. Head coach Raheem Morris tried to fix this by signing Kirk Cousins in free agency and drafting Michael Penix Jr.
The biggest remaining question surrounding the Falcons is whether or not they did enough to improve the rest of their team, including the defense. Atlanta didn't make any major free-agent signings on the defensive side of the ball and waited until the second round to draft Clemson's Ruke Orhorhoro.
So while the Falcons offense could potentially be elite this season, not everyone is buying into them as a playoff team. In NFL.com's latest power rankings, Eric Edholm explains that the Buccaneers could be tough for Atlanta to unseat in the NFC South:
The Falcons will play their first preseason game on Friday when they take on the Dolphins in Miami. However, don't expect to see Kirk Cousins make his debut. Morris told reporters on Wednesday that Cousins was unlikely to play, but Penix will receive significant playing time.
Atlanta's first-round pick has impressed throughout training camp even though he's not expected to play in the regular season. Former Falcons defensive lineman Calais Campbell was impressed with Penix during Tuesday's joint practice.
While everyone will be focused on the offense, Friday's game is probably more important for the defense as it integrates several new faces. Rookies Ruke Orhorhoro, Bralen Trice and Brandon Dorlus could each play key roles this year and will need to get all the experience they can in the preseason.
Make sure to check out the team's first unofficial depth chart and 90-man roster ahead of preseason Week 1.
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This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: NFL.com lists Falcons near the bottom of latest power rankings
