Captains’ Code: Breaking Down 2025 NFL Team DNA — Atlanta Falcons
Edition #290
Everyone’s doing season previews — but we’re doing something different. The
Captains’ Code is all about what really makes or breaks an NFL team. It’s not just about rosters or vibes. It’s about the identity, the pressure points, the bold calls, and the one thing that could send everything crashing down… or finally take them over the top. No filler. Just straight-up football breakdowns that tell you what actually matters heading into 2025.
The X-Factor That Will Make or Break This Season
DT Ruke Orhorhoro. Atlanta invested heavily in its defense this offseason, but left its defensive tackle paper-thin, leaving David Onyemata and Kentavius Street as the only proven vets inside. Enter Orhorhoro, the 35th pick in 2024, who played just 148 snaps as a rookie while battling an ankle injury and struggling to crack the rotation. This year, he’ll be forced into playing time. If he develops into a disruptive penetrator, it transforms Atlanta’s defense. If he doesn’t, their run defense could undermine all the other improvements.
Last Year’s Numbers:
In the 2024 NFL regular season, the Atlanta Falcons’ offense was middle-of-the-pack in points scored, ranking 13th with 22.9 points per game. They were better in terms of total yards, ranking 6th overall. Their passing attack ranked 5th in passing yards per game, averaging 239.3, while their rushing attack ranked 10th in rushing yards per game with 130.5. Defensively, the Falcons ranked lower, allowing 24.9 points per game (23rd), and also ranking 23rd in total yards allowed per game. They allowed 235.53 opponent passing yards per game and 120.65 opponent rushing yards per game. The defense recorded 31 sacks and 12 interceptions. Their turnover differential was -6, ranking them tied for 23rd overall.
Key Player(s) to Watch: The Heroes and the Wild Cards
RT Elijah Wilkinson. With Michael Penix Jr. taking over and throwing left-handed, Kaleb McGary’s role has grown from solid right tackle to a blindside protector, but… he got injured, and that’s a huge loss, for both the Falcons and him, because he’s always been a powerful run blocker, but is also in a contract year. Wilkinson has never been a great right tackle because he was better at right guard. The Falcons' offensive line coach has worked with Wilkinson from 2022 to 25, so there’s a little comfort there. He is experienced, with 20 games at right tackle, and has offered quality pass protection from time to time.
Coaching: What’s Different This Year?
Defensive Coordinator: Jeff Ulbrich (replaces Jimmy Lake)
Linebackers Coach: Mike Rutenberg added
The Bold Prediction
The Falcons finish with the best record in the NFC South—and it’s Kirk Cousins, not Penix, who leads them there.
The Realistic Win Total & Why
9–8. Atlanta has enough balance on both sides of the ball to contend in a weak division. If they split with the Bucs and take care of the Panthers and Saints, they can win the South.
The Biggest Question Mark Heading Into 2025
Will the pass rush finally show up? Rookie edges are exciting, but if they can’t generate heat, the defense could stall again.
My Takeaway
The Falcons do have the roster to win the NFC South. Penix can be a long-term answer at QB—if the offensive line protects him. But the true pivot point is the pass rush. If it clicks, Atlanta has the division crown in its grasp.