Speaking With the Enemy (Draft Edition): Atlanta Falcons
Who do you think is poised to have a breakout 2015 season?
HN: As I mentioned earlier, there is a lot of untested young talent that fans have high hopes for on this roster. Ra’Shede Hageman showed glimpses last season of being a disruptive DT, blocking a PAT, generating a fair bit of pressure and even recording a sack in extremely limited playing time. If he can get his attitude and work ethic right, there’s a chance he sees a decent uptick in snaps.
Another one to look out for is recently signed FA linebacker Justin Durant. He and Brooks Reed were acquired to bolster a weak linebacking corps, but many experts including Peter King of SI suggested Durant could have been the steal of the early parts of free agency. Health has bee a huge factor throughout his career, but he and Reed could form a nice tandem if they can stay healthy. It will also be interesting to see how Devonta Freeman handles more responsibility and an increase in playing time.