Atlanta Falcons: 5 Players to Watch vs. Eagles

Dec 21, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) catches the ball prior to the game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Now that Julio Jones got that well-deserved contract extension, let’s see what our Top 5 wideout can do for us right away in Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles.  Jones in limited action seemed to have a great grasp of New OC Kyle Shanahan’s offense.  Julio’s connection with QB Matt Ryan looked as strong as ever.

Entering 2015, there is no doubt that Julio Jones is the number one receiver in Atlanta.  Jones is among the best of the best in the NFL with Detroit’s Calvin Johnson, Dallas’ Dez Bryant, Denver’s Demaryius Thomas, and Cincinnati’s A.J. Green to name a few.

Philadelphia’s strength on defense lies in the front seven, as Philly finished second in the NFL last season in defensive sacks.  The Eagles hope to improve in the secondary in 2015, so expect Julio Jones to exploit Philadelphia’s biggest liability on the defensive side of the football.

I would like to think that Julio has at least 8 catches for 115 yards and 1 touchdown in his first week of the NFL Season.  Let’s hope that Matt Ryan has the necessary time to deliver strikes to Julio deep in the Philadelphia defensive backfield.  So much of the Atlanta Falcons’ success tomorrow night will come from if the offensive line can keep Matt Ryan clean in the pocket.  Should that happen, I’m confident that Jones can corral a few of Ryan’s passes and make plays in the Falcons’ passing game.

Next: Is He an Answer on the Offensive Line?