The Atlanta Falcons (4-12) have not been the same since they lost QB Michael Vick to the federal penitentiary. In 2004, they notched 11 victories and made it to the playoffs. 
Offense
Atlanta had no running game and a porous O-line last season. Falcon quarterbacks were sacked 47 times. The line is being rebuilt. QB Joey Harrington (348 ATT, 215 COMP, 2,215 YDS, 7 TD, 8 INT) was inconsistent. If he continues to make mistakes, QB Matt Ryan, who was the third overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, may need to step in. Free agent RB Michael Turner (71 ATT, 316 YDS, 4.5 AVG, 1 TD), who was LaDanian Tomlinson’s backup, has been brought in to replace Warrwick Dunn. Turner has averaged 5.2 yards per carry. The receivers are good, with Roddy White (83 REC, 1,202 YDS, 14.5 AVG, 6 TDs) anchoring a fairly deep group.
Defense
Keith Brooking (110 tackles) and Michael Boley (109) lead a fine linebacking squad. Upfront, DE John Abrahams, who had 10 sacks, was the best of the unit. The secondary is sound.
Special Teams
Jason Elam is the team’s new placekicker. He’s solid. Michael Koenen is versatile— punting, kicking long field goals and kicking off. Jerious Norwood is a quality return man.
Overview
Rookie coach Mike Smith has a lot of work to do. This is a rebuilding year and next season will also be devoted to retooling. The Falcons are still trying to recover from the devastating effects of QB Michael Vick’s prison sentence.