In a bygone era, the Atlanta Falcons were a force to be reckoned with in the NFL, boasting a star quarterback in Matt Ryan and a roster teeming with talent. However, since Ryan’s departure, the team has struggled to find consistency and a worthy successor.
The Falcons’ woes have been exacerbated by their inability to pinpoint a long-term solution at quarterback, leading to a lack of cohesion on both sides of the ball. Nevertheless, the 2024 NFL season could mark a turning point for the franchise, as they’ve assembled a promising nucleus that could propel them toward a high-powered offense and a legitimate playoff push in the NFC.
Their most significant offseason move was inking veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year deal, which could result in a substantial upgrade at the position and provide a significant boost to the development of young stars Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts.
During an appearance on “Up & Adams,” Robinson was asked which matchup he’s most looking forward to in the 2024 campaign, and he didn’t hesitate to pinpoint Week 1, when the Falcons host the revamped Pittsburgh Steelers and former Falcons head coach turned Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
#Falcons RB @Bijan5Robinson is eager to face his former HC and current #Steelers OC Arthur Smith Week 1 @heykayadams @AtlantaFalcons #RiseUp pic.twitter.com/
The Week 1 showdown between the Steelers and Falcons will serve as an ideal litmus test for both teams’ progress heading into the season, as they’ve both made significant changes offensively, particularly at quarterback.
The highly anticipated matchup is set to take place on September 8 in Atlanta, with both teams seeking to kick off the 2024 campaign on a high note.