5 Big Changes for the Atlanta Falcons in the 2011 NFL Season

The Atlanta Falcons have made many changes this preseason in hopes of assembling a team that has the potential to win a Super Bowl.

They have made moves in free agency and made a big move in the NFL Draft that dramatically change the outlook on this team. Here are some of the biggest changes made to the Falcons.

5. Offensive Line

Not too much has changed for the Falcons up front, but they did lose Harvey Dahl to free agency. Dahl was a solid fixture in the offensive line, but the Falcons should be able to replace him.

Expect the Falcons to reload on the offensive line and get a good consistent push for the running backs to run through.

4. Running Back

Yes, Michael Turner and Jason Snelling are returning for the Falcons, but they have a new third-down running back in Jacquizz Rodgers.

Quizz played his collegiate ball at Oregon State and is known for shiftiness and ability to make something out of nothing, especially with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. Watch for an improved running game on third downs this year.

3. Secondary

The defensive secondary for the Falcons is taking a couple of steps backward in the age department as William Moore is expected to be one of the starting safeties along with Thomas DeCoud.

Moore has had a disappointing start to his career, but this year could change things for the better. Brent Grimes has also solidified himself as the No. 2 cornerback for the defense and has had a phenomenal preseason.

2. Defensive Line

The defensive line for the Falcons has a fresh new face to it with the signing of free agent Ray Edwards, who is a mountain of a man standing 6’5” and weighing 270 pounds.

The Falcons expect him and veteran John Abraham to have big seasons. Aside from Edwards, the defensive line will look, for the most part, like it did last season.

1. Wide Receiving Corps

This season the Falcons wide receiving corps will have a different look to it. First off, the Falcons cut Michael Jenkins, who now plays for the Minnesota Vikings.

Next, they drafted wide receiver Julio Jones with the sixth overall pick in the draft. Lastly, slot receiver Harry Douglas is finally healthy after having an injury-plagued career and has produced thus far in the preseason.