The Atlanta Falcons defense has been an issue for some time, but up until 2021, the linebacker position wasn’t really the problem. The team switched to a 3-4 defense under Dean Pees this season which allowed for some new blood to get on the field.
Pro Football Focus outlined one breakout player for each team heading into the 2022 season. For the Falcons, PFF highlights linebacker Mykal Walker, the team’s fourth-round selection in 2020. Walker also made PFF’s all-rookie team ahead of first-round draft choice A.J. Terrell.
PFF’s Anthony Treash notes that Walker’s selection comes as a result of Foye Oluokun potentially leaving the team in free agency. However, you could make the case that Deion Jones is more likely to be gone than Oluokun, despite still being under contract. Jones hasn’t exactly thrived since Pees took over and his hefty cap hit could make him a potential trade candidate this offseason as the team looks to free up cap space.
Walker would benefit from either player departing as he would step into a starting role. Regardless of what happens, the former Fresno State standout deserves more playing time in 2022.
