Even after Sunday’s 37-17 loss to the Chicago Bears, the Atlanta Falcons still have a chance to win the NFC South in Week 18. Regardless of what happens, though, this team has several issues that need to be addressed during the offseason.
Falcons owner Arthur Blank has some tough decision to make in the coming weeks. Before that happens, check out our penultimate studs and duds from the team’s ugly loss in Chicago.
Stud: Bijan Robinson
On a day when the weather was poor, the Falcons had more success on the ground than through the air. Robinson didn’t have a career day in the stat book, but he turned in an efficient 86-yard performance in Week 17. The Falcons rookie was supposed to take the offense to the next level this season, however, Robinson has ended up being one of the only bright spots on that side of the ball.
Dud: Taylor Heinicke
The quarterback spot has hindered this Falcons team all season long. Sunday’s game was no exception, as Heinicke threw three interceptions and completed less than half of his passes. The veteran QB played well last Sunday, but he was truly careless with the football in Week 17. With one game remaining, it’s hard to feel good about going forward with Heinicke or Desmond Ridder as the starting QB.
Stud: Kaden Elliss
The former Saints linebacker has been excellent all season long. Each week, Elliss has been among the most consistent tacklers on defense and he has a knack for getting after the football. Against the Bears, Elliss accounted for six tackles and one sack. Some doubted Elliss’ signing back in free agency, but it’s clear general manager Terry Fontenot made a great call by betting on the inexperienced linebacker to take the next step.
Dud: Kyle Pitts
All year long, fans have debated if Pitts’ lack of production is due to his health or the result of poor coaching. The Falcons passed up on drafting QB Justin Fields in favor of Pitts back in 2021. Three years later, it’s pretty clear the Falcons made the wrong choice. Pitts finished the game with five yards on one reception. This could also be a byproduct of poor QB play. Perhaps the lesson here is that you shouldn’t draft a tight end in the top five if you don’t have the QB situation settled.
