Our ESPN fantasy football series concludes with an analysis of the Atlanta Falcons' defense and special teams:
ESPN Fantasy Projection: 33 sacks, 14 interceptions, 8 fumble recoveries, 3 TDs.
Over or under: The Falcons were last in the league with 19 sacks last season, so one would think the only place for them to go is up. The addition of veteran pass-rusher Dwight Freeney and his 119.5 career sacks should help the cause. Also, Vic Beasley Jr. is expected to take a significant step in his second season. However, the skeptic in me says the Falcons improve to 30 sacks rather than 33, which is still not enough. The Falcons will generate more pressure, though, which should help lead to more turnovers. So, I'm going to say the Falcons top last year's total of 15 interceptions. They could play more man-to-man in certain situations, allowing cornerback Desmond Trufant to show his true skills and come up with some picks. Plus the Falcons are hoping for a contribution from converted receiver C.J. Goodwin, who showed during training camp he can go up and get the ball from anyone. And let's not forget how rookies Keanu Neal, Deion Jones and De'Vondre Campbell could help in causing turnovers with their speed and physicality. Special-teams wise, the Falcons had a 101-yard kickoff return for a touchdown from undrafted rookie J.D. McKissic in the preseason opener, so maybe the new kickoff rules won't totally negate the return game. The coaches hope to get explosive kickoff returns from running back Tevin Coleman.
