Atlanta Falcons: 3 breakout candidates for 2019

Takk McKinley, Ty Sambrailo, and Ito Smith could be the three breakout candidates for the Atlanta Falcons in the 2019 season.

Today we’re going to take a look at the Atlanta Falcons players I believe can break out in 2019. One exciting thing for Falcons fans is, there may actually be too many to choose from.

Let’s focus in on focus on these three: pass rusher Takk McKinley, offensive tackle Ty Sambrailo, and running back Ito Smith. Who is your breakout candidate for 2019?

1. Takk McKinley 

McKinley is going into his third season which is a key year for him.

Coach Dan Quinn is calling the defensive plays this year and he likes to have a more aggressive pass rush. Quinn has also been working closely with McKinley in OTAs on his edge-setting. He’s been helping him use his hands more during his pass rushes, which he thinks will result in a much improved season in regards to the number of sacks he racks up.

I believe he can improve on his eight sacks in year one, and seven in year two by hitting double digits in 2019.

2. Ty Sambrailo

Sambrailo signed a three year extension worth a total of $18 million in the off season to replace Ryan Schraeder at right tackle for the 2019 season.

Last year Sambrailo saw time mostly as a backup until later in the season. More playing time in 2019 should help him have a more productive year, obviously. Another thing to note is the Atlanta Falcons drafted two offensive linemen in the first round: Chris Lindstrom and Kaleb McGary.

Sambrailo can help teach these younger lineman, and I believe in turn that leadership from him and Alex Mack can make him a stronger asset for the team in 2019 and beyond.

3. Ito Smith 

Smith can thrive under Dirk Koetter, the offensive coordinator in Atlanta. Koetter believes in a more balanced attack on offense, so the fifth worst rushing attack in the league should be improved this season.

Another benefit for Smith is he’s now the second string running back with Tevin Coleman signing in San Francisco during the offseason.

Lastly the offensive line is going to be vastly improved, opening up lanes to run through.

According to NFL.com, he had 315 yards and four touchdowns last year, I can see him rushing for over 500 yards and 7 touchdowns.