The Atlanta Falcons' odd partnership with former quarterback and current tight end Feleipe Franks returned this season after Franks spent 2024 with the Carolina Panthers. Bringing back the former QB was an odd decision based simply on the fact his roster spot was better spent at almost any other position. Unfortunately, this was driven home by Sunday's frustrating performance.
Franks was first flagged for 15 yards on a kickoff for unnecessary roughness and would later earn his second flag of the game. It was yet another example of a player who remains a mystery as to why he is rostered.
Special teams piece helped set the tone for Atlanta's day of failure against the Miami Dolphins, was Franks' clear issues were front and centers. That shouldn't be lost on Falcons decision-makers over the next week.
Falcons Pay for Obvious Mistake with Feleipe Franks Helping Set the Tone for Week 8 Collapse
Perhaps if there is one saving grace for Franks, it is the fact that he does seem to be well-liked by teammates and within the locker room. Regardless, this doesn't make up for the two special teams penalties -- or the failure on an onside kick. While the game was already decided, John Parker-Romo executed a perfect onside attempt, only for it to bounce off the arms of Franks and over to Miami receiver Jaylen Waddle.
Having Franks struggle to this level provides every reason for the Falcons to consider pivoting in another direction. There needs to be a tone shift within this roster, and it might include moving on from multiple players and coaches.
Cutting Franks and perhaps making a change at offensive coordinator are both options the franchise could explore. If the Falcons aren't quickly able to turn around a struggling offense and their sloppy execution, it will be yet another lost campaign.
We've already seen that exact story play out several times in ATL over the last decade or so. That makes it even more important to usher out players who aren't living up to expectations or helping the team right this sinking ship. Franks falls under this umbrella, and after two awful mistakes, he should unquestionably find himself on the hot seat.