Locked On Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons will need to start the 2024 season fast to reach their postseason goals, and how they deploy quarterback Kirk Cousins during the preseason might impact that. Host Aaron Freeman breaks down the stats and numbers behind Kirk's annual September struggles and whether or not that is impacted by his preseason workload. He also breaks down a hypothetical trade where the Falcons could move Cousins this summer if rookie quarterback Michael Penix impresses, mirroring what happened with Philadelphia Eagles passers Sam Bradford and Carson Wentz back in 2016.Later, he answers listener questions about the things defensive end Zach Harrison did at the end of the 2023 season that led to so much production down the stretch and why there isn't as much hype about Darnell Mooney's role within the Falcons offense.Part of the  @LockedOnATL  Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons made a series of underrated moves adding to their wide receiver room. Host Aaron Freeman and guest Allen Strk (@TheFalcoholicLive) discuss why Darnell Mooney is an underrated pickup, as well as the "redemption arc" for new head coach Raheem Morris. They discuss the offseason investments at quarterback as well as the tough five-game slate the team has to open their 2024 schedule. Later, they unveil the opening round of their trivia tournament bracket called the "Falcons Historian Player Shootout." They break down the future series of podcasts pitting various Atlanta-based and Falcons content creators against each other to see who knows the most about some of the illustrious Falcon players over the past 20 years. Part of the @LockedOnATL Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons' 2024 season is set up perfectly with their Week 1 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Host Aaron Freeman breaks down how it features the offseason bets made by the Falcons involving the quarterback, offensive coordinator, and head coach. He breaks down the two opposing styles made by both teams to upgrade their quarterbacks this offseason, with the Falcons spending a lot of money on Kirk Cousins and the Steelers going cheap with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Later, he discusses the expectations on new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson in contrast to former head coach and play-caller Arthur Smith, who is now calling plays for the Steelers. He also breaks down new head coach Raheem Morris' connects to Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin from their shared days in Tampa Bay to Tomlin's success in Pittsburgh over the past 17 years. Part of the  @LockedOnATL  Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

Raheem Morris and the Atlanta Falcons have now brought in the veterans and Kirk Cousins got a chance to have an impression on guys like Kyle Pitts and Darnell Mooney. Also, Ade Ogundeji being cut might be a warning shot for guys still on the roster from past drafts. Tenitra Batiste, Jarvis Davis, Aaron Freeman and Tori McElhaney talked about the impact that Cousins has had on his teammates thus far. Secondly, Pitts got a chance to talk about his 5th year option being picked up. The team discussed Pitts’ mindset and the sense of urgency he has to play with this year. Lastly, the Falcons revealed that there will be no fans in Flowery Branch for training camp. The team talked about what that means for fans in 2024.  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Yahoo FinanceFor comprehensive financial news and analysis, visit the brand behind every great investor. Yahoofinance.comeBay MotorsFor parts that fit, head to eBay Motors and look for the green check. Stay in the game with eBay Guaranteed Fit at eBayMotors.com.

The Atlanta Falcons have several candidates to start at cornerback opposite A.J. Terrell. Host Aaron Freeman breaks down why he thinks Mike Hughes is the front-runner in the competition. He discusses whether or not Clark Phillips, Kevin King, or Antonio Hamilton Sr. will push him for that starting job. Later, he discusses the team's expected defensive scheme changes under new defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake, looking at head coach Raheem Morris' defenses with the Los Angeles Rams in recent years. He discusses why the Falcons will be more of a bend-but-don't-break defense under Lake and why their lack of offseason investments make it hard to get excited about the direction of the defense as a whole. Finally, Roman Tomashoff ( @LockedonHuskies ) joins to share his insight into Lake from his days at the University of Washington, as well as former Huskies Kaleb McGary and King. Part of the  @LockedOnATL  Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons surprised many by trading up for Clemons defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Host Aaron Freeman breaks down his profile and potential to be an impact defensive linemen in Atlanta. He looks at his collegiate production and role, to glean how he might be used in Atlanta. He also discusses if the pick should be considered a "reach". Later, he discusses how Ruke can fit into the rotational along the defensive front alongside veterans like Grady Jarrett and David Onyemata, before making pro player comparisons. Part of the @LockedOnATL Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons have mathematically one of the softest schedules in 2024, but the schedule-makers didn't do them any favors with how they must start the year. Host Aaron Freeman goes week-by-week to break down the key matchups and fun narratives that could be discussed this year. He explains all the stats that indicate the Falcons have a soft schedule, but breaks down the importance of their run game, offensive line, and Kirk Cousins starting fast to take advantage of it. Part of the  @LockedOnATL  Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons should try and bolster their pass rush with the one remaining spot on their 90-man roster. Host Aaron Freeman and guest Dave Choate (@TheFalcoholicLive) discuss why they think veteran free agents like Tyus Bowser and Justin Houston could help bolster their pass rush in 2024. They also discuss the four recent additions made by the team in edge-rusher Bradlee Anae, safety Dane Cruikshank, tight end Ross Dwelley, and wide receiver Dylan Drummond. Later, they discuss the Falcons three rookie defensive linemen: Ruke Orhorhoro, Bralen Trice, and Brandon Dorlus to set expectations for how they might impact and produce in their first NFL seasons. They also discuss if Michael Penix is a shoe-in to be the team's backup quarterback over Taylor Heinicke, or if they might keep all three. Finally, they look ahead to some of the most intriguing matchups looming with the 2024 NFL schedule being announced soon. Part of the @LockedOnATL Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons are counting on emerging young players in their bid to return to the postseason for the first time since 2017. Host Aaron Freeman and guest Will McFadden (@BleavinFalcons) discuss which of the team's 2024 draft picks will impact the most and which of their picks from 2021-23 are poised for breakout seasons. Is Brandon Dorlus, Bralen Trice, or Ruke Orhorhoro the rookie most poised to impact right away? Later, Will explains why center Drew Dalman, safety Richie Grant, defensive end Zach Harrison, linebacker Troy Andersen, and cornerback Clark Phillips are poised for bigger seasons in 2024. Finally, they discuss the most intriguing matchups on the Falcons upcoming 2024 schedule and how many primetime games the team is poised to have. Part of the @LockedOnATL Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

Raheem Morris and the Atlanta Falcons held rookie minicamps over the weekend. However, Morris had to answer questions about his starting quarterback, Kirk Cousins. Michael Penix Jr. was the topic of conversations as well. Tenitra Batiste, Jarvis Davis, Aaron Freeman and Tori McElhaney talked about where they see Cousins making an appearance this summer. Secondly, the team talked about Morris speaking on the Falcons’ pass rush. Ruke Orhorhoro, Bralen Trice, Brandon Dorlus and Zion Logue all were drafted to come in to contribute in some form or fashion. Lastly, they wrapped things up by talking about some young names who shined out at practice on Friday. BECOME AN INSIDER: joinsubtext.com/lockedonsportsatlanta Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!eBay MotorsFor parts that fit, head to eBay Motors and look for the green check. Stay in the game with eBay Guaranteed Fit at eBayMotors.com. Let’s ride. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply.GametimeDownload the Gam

The Atlanta Falcons see Michael Penix as their quarterback of the future, but what exactly is his best trait? Host Aaron Freeman discusses whether Penix's aggressiveness to throw downfield qualifies as a "superpower." He breaks down Penix's strengths, weaknesses, and potential scheme fit in the NFL. Later, he breaks into the nature vs. nurture debate surrounding Penix. Can he refine his mechanics and footwork to improve his accuracy? Is the Falcons' development plan a good one? What does the future look like for Penix in Atlanta? Finally, he tries to find a range of player comparisons for what Penix could be in the NFL to discuss his floor and ceiling as a pro. Part of the @LockedOnATL Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons held a rookie minicamp out in Flowery Branch. Raheem Morris was looking for specific things out of his young guys. Michael Penix Jr. was holding court after practice. Tenitra & Jarvis reacted to all the different players like Ruke Orhorhoro and Bralen Trice who were in attendance today.  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Monopoly GO!Game off! We gotta talk more about MONOPOLY GO! This fast paced game let’syou team up with friends for tournaments to unlock awesome prizes like,Unique stickers for trading,- Cool playing pieces,- And hilarious emojis for taunting your friends. So download MONOPOLY GO! now free on Google Play or the App store.Game on!Yahoo FinanceFor comprehensive financial news and analysis, visit the brand behind every great investor. Yahoofinance.comeBay MotorsFor parts that fit, head to eBay Motors and look for the green check. Stay in the game with eBay Guaranteed Fit at eBayMotors.com. Let’s ride. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. Eligible items

The Atlanta Falcons hope their offense makes a big jump in 2024 and that may rely heavily on Drake London taking his game to the next level. Host Aaron Freeman explains why things might be looking up this year despite the Falcons running it back with mostly the same offense they had in 2023. He discusses the reasons why the run game can improve and why the Falcons offense should be more explosive with Kirk Cousins at quarterback and Zac Robinson calling plays. He discusses Darnell Mooney's viability as a deep threat and breaks down why London unlocking a new level of production comparable to Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua is critical to the team's success.Later, he discusses how the Falcons might fill the five currently open spots on their 90-man roster and breaks down some of the top free agents available at cornerback and safety. He also discusses if Zach Harrison could help alleviate some of the team's edge-rusher concerns. Finally, he discusses the possibility of the Falcons moving on from Kirk Cousins in 202

The Atlanta Falcons made a big bet on Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Host Aaron Freeman and guest Connor Rogers ( @NFLStockExchange ) break down why Penix's game translates well to the NFL level due to his unique physical tools and smarts. Connor shares why he was higher on Penix than consensus before breaking down Penix's fit in Atlanta's offense under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson.Later, they discuss the rest of the Falcons' 2024 NFL Draft class, including his thoughts on their "reaching" on Clemson defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro in the second round, and tripling up on impact pass-rushers like Bralen Trice (Washington) and Brandon Dorlus (Oregon) later. Part of the  @LockedOnATL  Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons might have found themselves a legit quarterback of the future in Michael Penix. Host Aaron Freeman and guest Roman Tomashoff (@LockedonHuskies) discuss Penix's time at the University of Washington, including his exceeding expectations, high character, and why he uplifted that program to new heights as a preview of what he can do in Atlanta. Later, Aaron discusses the latest on Kirk Cousins being upset by the team's decision to draft Penix and how the team can solve that problem with success. He discusses the potential of a slow start to the 2024 season impacting the brewing "quarterback controversy" in Atlanta. Part of the @LockedOnATL Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

The Atlanta Falcons have received a lot of criticism for drafting quarterback Michael Penix in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Host Aaron Freeman is joined by guest Matt Waldman (@MattWaldmanRSPFilmRoom) to explain why it was a good move. Matt explains why the Falcons need insurance behind an aging Kirk Cousins and why he thinks Cousins' negative reaction to the pick needs to be kept in check. Later, they discuss why Penix's accuracy and ability to handle pressure are underrated aspects of his game, before discussing how he can benefit from sitting for multiple seasons in contrast to most young quarterbacks. Part of the @LockedOnATL Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

Terry Fontenot and the Atlanta Falcons picked up the fifth-year option on Kyle Pitts’ contract. Pitts’ conversation with Kirk Cousins was highlighted by him wanting more targets. Tenitra Batiste, Jarvis Davis, Aaron Freeman & Tori McElhaney talked about what it meant for the Falcons to pick up his option. Secondly, the Falcons will hold a rookie minicamp this week. Guys like Ruke Orhorhoro, Bralen Trice and Casey Washington will have eyes on them as they come together in Flowery Branch. Lastly, the team discussed the NFL somehow making it an event to release their schedule. BECOME AN INSIDER: joinsubtext.com/lockedonsportsatlanta Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Monopoly GO!Game off! We gotta talk more about MONOPOLY GO! This fast paced game let’syou team up with friends for tournaments to unlock awesome prizes like,Unique stickers for trading,- Cool playing pieces,- And hilarious emojis for taunting your friends. So download MONOPOLY GO! now free on Google Play or the App store.Game on!Yahoo Finance

Some question Atlanta Falcons new rookie quarterback Michael Penix's fit in their new-look offense under play-caller Zac Robinson. Host Aaron Freeman is joined by one such skeptic in today's guest Derrik Klassen (@BleacherReport) to explain why he doesn't love Penix's fit in the Sean McVay-derivative offense expected to be employed by Robinson.Later, they discuss Penix's willingness to attack the middle of defense as opposed to throwing over the middle of the field. They discuss comparisons for Penix including Matthew Stafford and Carson Palmer, before diving into concerns about his mechanics, footwork, and whether his strengths like his arm talent and aggressiveness as a passer will offset those issues down the road. Finally, they break down the types of receivers that are ideal options to surround Penix with and whether Drake London and others currently on the Falcons fit that description. Part of the @LockedOnATL Check out my film breakdown from January of Michael Penix from the National Title game vs. Mic

Now that the shock has worn off from the Atlanta Falcons' selection of quarterback Michael Penix in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, will they live to regret it? Host Aaron Freeman and guest Trevor Sikkema (@ProFootballFocus & @NFLStockExchange) discuss how they view that pick now a week after it was made, and whether or not the team will be worrying about "opportunity cost" down the road.Later, they discuss the team's decision to pass on a top pass-rusher, and whether drafting three defensive linemen after the first round make up for it. Trevor shares why he was higher on Oregon defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus and how he could impact right away, along with how he sees Clemson defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro and Washington edge-rusher Bralen Trice fitting into the Falcons defense. Finally, they look at the team's decision to punt on a cornerback in the 2024 NFL Draft and if second-year cornerback Clark Phillips can step into the void opposite A.J. Terrell.Part of the @LockedOnATLFollow & Subscri

The Atlanta Falcons' surprise selection of Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft looks a little different after a week of thinking it over according to host Aaron Freeman and his guest Damian Parson (@LockedOnNFLDraft). They discuss Penix's role behind Kirk Cousins and whether or not he'll push for the starting job sooner versus later. Then, they discuss the rest of the Falcons 2024 draft class including the three pass-rushers they took after the first round: Clemson defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro, Washington edge-rusher Bralen Trice, and Oregon defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus. They discuss whether or not Falcons head coach Raheem Morris could have any of them impacting as rookies in the same ways Los Angeles Rams outside linebacker Byron Young and defensive tackle Kobie Turner did a year ago. Finally, they discuss some of the Falcons Day 3 standouts including Notre Dame linebacker J.D. Bertrand and Alabama running back Jase McClellan, before discussing if the Fal