The Atlanta Falcons had what was viewed as an underwhelming offseason due to the continued lack of clarity around the quarterback position. Michael Penix Jr. still isn't fully healthy, and Tua Tagovailoa has a concerning history of concussions as well as enough struggles for the Miami Dolphins to move on in favor of an unproven Malik Willis. It has understandably been the focus of Atlanta's offseason and will continue to demand attention throughout camp and into the preseason.
However, there was a trio of moves the Falcons made in the 2026 offseason that deserve far more credit. Overlooked additions that have a chance to play meaningful roles. Starting with a familiar face who is going to be a veteran security blanket and could help Pitts find a higher level of consistency.
1. Signing Austin Hooper
Reuniting with Hooper was quietly an elite decision with the pass catcher coming off a Super Bowl appearance with the New England Patriots. Hooper's days of being a primary target at the position are behind him, but the pass catcher remains an incredibly productive secondary weapon. One that can be leaned on by Penix or Tagovailoa. Hooper is the ultimate pro, offering great effort on every snap and making winning plays that don't show up in the box score.
Bringing his experience to Atlanta's roster is a great decision and should hopefully help push Pitts a bit. For Hooper, it is a late-career return to a team that hasn't made the playoffs since he left. It would be fitting to see this streak end as the tight end play a key offensive role in Atlanta's return to prominence.
2. Solidifying the Kicking Game
A large part of Atlanta's 2025 frustrations was the implosion of Younghoe Koo and the lack of a reliable kicking game throughout the season. When you're dealing with a challenged quarterback situation, the last thing you need to stack on top of this is not being able to rely on your top scorer. The Falcons realized this, and the two largest contracts handed out in free agency were to veteran kicker Nick Folk and punter Jake Bailey.
Both are established performers with solid resumes over the past two seasons. It shouldn't be underrated that the Falcons can now lean on the position instead of viewing it as a liability and wondering what each given week might hold.
3. Matt Ryan's Atlanta Return
It is noteworthy that since the Falcons pushed Ryan out in favor of chasing Deshaun Watson, the team has not only failed to make the playoffs but has also yet to have a winning season. A player that was taken for granted and underrated throughout the league shouldered so much responsibility for a franchise that authored a disrespectful exit that would author their recent struggles.
Seeing Ryan return in a leadership role and be back in the fold is fitting and perhaps what was needed to turn back the clock to the Falcons being viable contenders. At the very least, having Ryan's experience and decision-making brightens the future and rights a wrong that set the Falcons on a frustrating path.
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