The Falcons added a number of new faces this offseason. Rookies and veterans alike will help the club back to the postseason, where Atlanta hasn’t been since 2017. There are a number of fascinating stories to watch, like Bijan Robinson’s bid for Offensive Rookie of the Year, the defense’s resurgence, and Desmond Ridder‘s first season as the team’s quarterback. Another one that some might not be thinking about is first-time Pro Bowlers. Let’s talk about some candidates.
Desmond Ridder
Some of these are long shots, and Ridder is one. Earning Pro Bowl honors is halfway a popularity contest, but Ridder has the opportunity to become a fan favorite if he puts up numbers and stacks wins. There will be plenty of weapons to help the new Falcons signal caller establish himself. He’s a dark horse candidate, but don’t count Desmond Ridder out.
Bijan Robinson
Out of all these guys, I think Bijan Robinson is the most likely. In his professional debut, Robinson totaled 26 yards on five touches. He’s going to be the driving force in this offense and could quickly become one of the faces of football. It wouldn’t surprise me if he’s a rookie Pro Bowler.
Drake London
Drake London broke Kyle Pitts‘ receptions record by a rookie last year, but receiver is one of the harder positions to earn awards at. London does have the ability, but given the state of the NFL landscape, he’d have to beat out some pretty impressive players to earn Pro Bowl honors.
David Onyemata
Onyemata never made the Pro Bowl in New Orleans, which featured several talented defensive fronts. It’s difficult for interior defenders to make the Pro Bowl when the likes of Chris Jones and Aaron Donald are practically guaranteed to make the list. What’s even more challenging is making one without gaudy sack numbers. It’s not impossible but certainly unlikely.
Jessie Bates III
Bates has earned All-Pro honors but not a nod to the Pro Bowl. It’s why the event doesn’t carry the same weight it use to. Still, you’d be a fool to believe Bates doesn’t have a chance to earn his first Pro Bowl appearance in 2023. The Falcons defense is much improved, and he might be the best player on that side of the ball.
Kaden Elliss
This will be the first season in which Kaden Elliss will be a full-time starter to enter the year. His ability to impact the game as a traditional off-ball linebacker as well as a pass rusher bodes well for his chances to make the Pro Bowl.
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Photographer: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire
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