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NFC South Offseason Questions

By Eric Robinson

Nov 3, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) catches the ball over Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Vernon Hargreaves (28) for a touchdown during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Atlanta Falcons defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 43-28. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 3, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) catches the ball over Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Vernon Hargreaves (28) for a touchdown during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Atlanta Falcons defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 43-28. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 22, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) scores a touchdown and is congratulated by quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers in the 2017 NFC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 22, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) scores a touchdown and is congratulated by quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers in the 2017 NFC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

Atlanta Falcons: Are they mentally prepared for the season?

We all know the story by now. The Falcons gave up the biggest comeback in Super Bowl history. A 25-point climb by the New England Patriots destroyed any hopes of the team getting their first Super Bowl championship.

No need to beat a drum that has been pounded often already. The Falcons now have the complex task sitting in front of them which is to simply move on. It is capable albeit truly difficult.

The talent is clearly there for the Falcons on both sides of the ball. The offense still possess the league MVP in Matt Ryan at quarterback, arguably the league’s best offensive weapon in receiver Julio Jones, a dynamic one-two punch at running back in Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman, a dangerous pass rusher in edge rusher Vic Beasley, and a pair of stellar defenders in safety Keanu Neal and linebacker Deion Jones. Both who key contributors on defense as rookies last season.

Compared to past Super Bowl losers, the Falcons are one of the few teams who return a boatload of talent. Key additions this offseason include massive nose tackle Dontari Poe and first round selection Takkarist McKinley to help in the pass rushing department.

So while the talent is evident, their season will hinge on how they mentally prepare for what may be a challenging season. A season full of hearing about Super Bowl LI over and over again along with being doubted over and over again. The team has overcame adversity before the past couple of seasons but this is the more daunting. If they can withstand the mental battle, a Super Bowl appearance is not out of the question. Their mental refinement is key this offseason.

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