Pro Football Focus' midseason awards highlight two standout Falcons players.
Through the first eight games of the season, the Atlanta Falcons have played more poorly than well, and their 3-5 record accurately reflects that. The one constant about the Falcons thus far is their inconsistency. We saw the team win Buffalo Bills on national television and lose Carolina Panthers by 30 points.
A week after the defeat from Miami Dolphins With a 24-point lead at home, Atlanta was in position to upset the red-hot New England Patriots on the road. While the Falcons have had some all-around offensive production this season, they have been able to rely on a few consistent producers.
Running back Bijan Robinson and wide receiver Drake London did their best to carry the load. Robinson got off to a good start but has been held back the last few weeks. London, on the other hand, has taken their game to a new level in recent weeks.
Professional football released its midseason report card, highlighting each team's highest-rated players and biggest surprise. London is the Falcons' best player through the first eight games.
Falcons MVP: Drake London
While Atlanta's offense has been a rollercoaster this year, London remains one of the best receivers in the NFL. His 89.0 PFF receiving grade is third best among receivers with 45 or more targets. — Bradley Locker, PFF
The former first-round pick has 47 catches for 587 receiving yards and five touchdowns in seven games this season. London has gone over 100 receiving yards in three of his last four games. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. scored three touchdowns for London in Week Nine.
As for the Falcons' biggest surprise, linebacker Devine Deablo received that honor.
Falcons' Biggest Surprise: LB Divine Deablo
Before suffering a broken forearm that could keep him out until late 2025, Deablo was the anchor of Atlanta's upstart defense. The 27-year-old played with an 86.0 overall PFF grade — third among qualified linebackers — with a 78.6+ grade in both safety and coverage.. — Bradley Locker, PFF
Deablo's absence has been felt by Atlanta's defense over the past few games. The team still has the No. 1 ranking in passing defense, but opponents have begun to make bigger plays without Deablo under center. JD Bertrand has struggled to replace Deablo, but Ronnie Harrison is making the most of his chance.
This weekend the Falcons will take on arguably the best team in the AFC. Indianapolis Colts. Sunday's game begins at 9:30 a.m. ET in Berlin, Germany.
