West Atlanta News

As the NFL trade deadline on November 5 approaches, the Atlanta Falcons face challenges with their pass rush performance. The team currently ranks last in several key metrics, including quarterback pressure rate and total sacks. This situation is highlighted by Kaden Elliss, an off-ball linebacker, leading the team in total pressures with 14.

Head coach Raheem Morris acknowledges the need for improvement. "It's not good enough," Morris stated. "We have to get better at pass rush." He emphasized that enhancing this aspect of their game is crucial for future success.

Despite these struggles, the Falcons maintain a 5-3 overall record and remain undefeated in their division. However, questions about acquiring a new pass rusher before the deadline persist among fans and analysts.

Addressing these inquiries, Tori McElhaney outlined potential strategies for obtaining a pass rusher. The Falcons have limited draft capital due to previous trades and tampering violations. They possess five picks for next year's draft but are unlikely to part with high-value selections.

McElhaney also discussed alternative options involving current roster players as trade assets. Financially, the Falcons have approximately $8.1 million in cap space available.

In another development, JC D., a fan from Savannah, Georgia, questioned whether Arnold Ebiketie could be utilized differently within the team's defensive setup. McElhaney expressed doubts about repositioning Ebiketie to inside linebacker due to his existing skill set and experience coming off the edge.

Ebiketie's performance has seen a decline this season, recording just ten pressures on 131 pass rushes — a career-low pressure rate of 6.6%. Grady Jarrett's production has also decreased following a knee injury last season.

Jarrett's pressure rate and average get-off time have reached their lowest since 2018. These issues underscore concerns regarding the Falcons' defensive capabilities moving forward.