If Atlanta accomplishes its goals this year, fans may see a few more faces on next season's list.
Will McFadden
ESPN gathered a panel of 10 analysts and insiders to determine their 100 best players heading into the 2025 season, and the number of Falcons on the list may be cause for debate.
Voters were asked to "rank players based on expected performance for the 2025 season," and they feel that only three Atlanta players will wind up among the league's best when the year concludes. It's a familiar trio for the Falcons that made the list: Jessie Bates III, Chris Lindstrom and Bijan Robinson.
Bates was lowest-ranked Falcons player on the list, coming in at the No. 62 spot, which is five spots higher than where he appeared on the list last year. In an earlier ESPN ranking ofthe league's best safeties, Bates was listed fourth. Atlanta's defensive captain was the only player in the NFL last season to record four interceptions and four forced fumbles, and he has a pick-six in each of the last two seasons.
"When he's back there lurking, he's able to do whatever he wants," Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. said. "It's scary for a quarterback. You've got to always find three."
Lindstrom, the second Atlanta player selected by ESPN's panel, is considered by some to be the best guard in the NFL. After appearing at No. 94 on this list last year, Lindstrom made a huge jump up to No. 53. He's been a full-time starter since he was selected in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, and a crucial part of the Falcons' dynamic run game. Given the injuries afflicting Atlanta at right tackle, Lindstrom's presence will be more important than ever.
"We know the skills he has as a guard, but the way he carries himself, the consistent worker, the mentality. He's one of those guys that whenever if we're not winning or he's not successful or we're not successful as a team, it bothers him," Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot said of Lindstrom. "He's not just OK showing up and things just going on. He wants to be the very best he can be for the team."
Robinson is the highest-ranked Falcons player and also made a large jump thanks to a sensational second season, climbing 34 spots to settle at No. 37 after appearing at No. 71 last year. He's among the most dynamic offensive weapons and perhaps the most elusive runner in the league. Atlanta aims to generatemore explosive plays for Robinson, which is the only element of his game that was missing in 2024. If he adds that final piece, Robinson could once again make a big leap.
"Everything about Bijan is an art form. ... His ability to move, his ability to take care of his body, his ability to train, his ability to motivate, his unselfishness, humility all of those things; his ability to give back in our community," Falcons head coach Raheem Morris said. "He's such a great player and such a great human. I love being around him."
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