NW Atlanta News

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The acquisition of Matthew Judon and Justin Simmons by the Atlanta Falcons has prompted discussions among fans and analysts regarding their impact on the team's performance this season. As the team progresses through the season, some supporters express concerns over whether these players have been as influential as initially expected.

Jeff C., a fan from Greensboro, North Carolina, questioned the roles of Judon and Simmons in a recent interaction. He commented, "When we picked up Justin Simmons and Mathew Judon everyone thought they were going to be difference makers. Is it them? Is it scheme? Ten games in and they are non-factors every week."

Tori McElhaney addressed these concerns, suggesting that while Simmons might not appear to be making significant plays, his presence is felt differently. "The fact of the matter is that opposing quarterbacks are not throwing the ball his way," she noted. Despite being targeted only 16 times and allowing eight catches, Simmons' influence can be inferred from strategic decisions made by opponents.

An example provided highlighted how Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott avoided deep throws against the Falcons' secondary during a recent game. McElhaney explained that Prescott's cautious approach was likely due to the presence of both Simmons and fellow defender Jessie Bates: "You know who we can infer he was actively trying to keep the ball away from? That would be the two guys patrolling the deep threat: Simmons and Jessie Bates."

Judon's situation appears more complex. Although his current performance falls short compared to previous seasons where he achieved double-digit sacks, McElhaney pointed out that he faces challenges such as frequent double-teaming: "I will say that he is also being double-teamed on 10.3% of his pass rushes this season." However, with only 1.5 sacks so far, expectations remain unmet.

Pass rush difficulties extend beyond individual performances for the Falcons' defense this year. McElhaney remarked that lower numbers in pass rush statistics affect both seasoned veterans like Grady Jarrett and newer players such as Arnold Ebiketie.