Panthers' Frank Reich on Improvements to Falcons' Defense: 'Going to Make an Impact!'
Both the Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons reshaped their offense with top-ten selections in 2023. Quarterback Bryce Young, the first overall pick, is the new face of Carolina football. Running back Bijan Robinson has quickly emerged as one of the most anticipated rookie debuts across the league.
Panthers head coach Frank Reich is tasked with smoothing the transition to the Bryce Young era, but took some time to focus on Atlanta’s defense ahead of the season opener.
“They’ve added a lot of pieces to that defensive front that you would think is going to make an impact,” Reich said.
Atlanta spent the offseason adding to its defensive line. The Falcons brought in veteran defensive end Calais Campbell, defensive tackle David Onyemata, and edge rusher Bud Dupree.
“Last year, when you looked at their team statistically, where they were weak was they ranked 31st as far as affecting the quarterback,” Reich said. “To their credit, they’ve addressed it.”
In 2022, Atlanta ranked last in pressure rate (14.6%) and hurry rate (3.8%), 31st in sacks (21), and 21st in quarterback knockdown rate (7.8%). Simply put, that needs to improve if head coach Arthur Smith plans on competing in 2023.
In a year with no NFC South team projected to dominate the conference, hosting a playoff game is within reach. A step forward from quarterback Desmond Ridder and any legitimate step forward from the defense can render Atlanta competitive. Signing star safety Jessie Bates III doesn’t hurt, either.
On Sunday, when the Falcons host the Panthers, making Young uncomfortable can pave a path to victory. With the influx of size, athleticism, and experience on the defensive line, a legitimate pass rush feels much more attainable.
They’ll have a chance to prove it when the Week 1 opener kicks off at 1 p.m.
