Are the Atlanta Falcons a playoff team in 2026? Falcons Roundtable examines Michael Penix Jr., concerns along the defensive line, pressure on Bijan Robinson and Drake London, and potential breakout seasons for Xavier Watts and Avieon Terrell.
There are still plenty of questions surrounding the Atlanta Falcons, despite only being a week away from their first game of the 2026 NFL season.
On this week's Falcons roundtable, the staff discusses some of the team's goals, concerns, strengths, and weaknesses as they prepare to fight for their chance to return to the postseason for the first time in nearly a decade.
The Falcons say their goal is to make the playoffs. After seeing the final roster, is this actually a playoff-caliber team?
Michael Brauner: Like everything else, it all comes down to quarterback. Assuming Penix takes the reins, if the staff can get the best out of him, there's no reason this team can't make a run at the NFC South.
Christian Rauh: I'm still not sold on the defense of trenches, and I think that's a big problem, especially in this division where almost every team has a star-studded running game. If the team struggles against the run as well as issues getting to the quarterback, it could be a long season for this Atlanta squad.
What is the biggest weakness on Atlanta's 53-man roster that could prevent them from making the playoffs?
Michael Brauner: Since it's too easy to say quarterback, I'll stick on the edge. Losing Jalon Walker and James Pearce for half the year leaves the cupboard bare there, and it was one of the strengths of the team last year.
Christian Rauh: It's definitely defensive line for me, but quarterback is right behind it without question. There are so many concerns surrounding the most important position in the NFL, around your signal caller.
Outside of the quarterback decision, which Falcons player has the most pressure on them entering Week 1?
Michael Brauner: Drake London. Now that he's paid like a top receiver, he is going to have to carry this passing game this year with questionable depth behind him at the position.
Christian Rauh: I'm leaning in the same direction, but for Bijan Robinson. I think he will be heavily relied on this year due to the quarterback concerns and the potential inconsistencies that that position will bring. Robinson is seen as the best running back in the NFL, and many are going to expect him to play like that after he's been paid.
Which Falcons player are you buying the most stock in entering the 2026 season?
Michael Brauner: I'm going to say, Avieon Terrell. He will be starting at nickel and seems like he could be due for a massive rookie season.
Christian Rauh: Although he's already seen as one of the better players at his position, I think Xavier Watts takes another step forward in 2026 to the point that we start discussing if he is truly one of the very best safeties in the NFL today.
