The Atlanta Falcons’ 2023 campaign is one of the most anticipated seasons in recent memory, and that’s a reality for several reasons.
It is now the third season under the new regime, and expectations have risen. Arthur Smith and Terry Fontenot are certainly not on the hot seat, but Arthur Blank and the fans are expecting more than seven wins.
And the reason for that is the improvement of the roster. When the offseason began, the front office had the second-most cap space in the league, and they used it. While locking up a few impending free agents of their own, the Falcons went out and filled the roster’s biggest holes, adding impact players on all three levels of the defense.
Jessie Bates III, David Onyemata, Kaden Elliss, and Calais Campbell headline the free agent class, but there were other less notable acquisitions that should propel one of the worst units in the NFL — Mike Hughes, Jeff Okudah, Eddie Goldman, Bud Dupree, and Lorenzo Carter.
The offense has seen some action as well. Fontenot re-signed Kaleb McGary, acquired Jonnu Smith in a deal with the Patriots, and signed Scotty Miller and Mack Hollins. It’s not the overhaul the defense underwent, but the offense did get better this offseason.
In a weak NFC South, the club has a legitimate chance to win its division, consequently leading to a home playoff game. There are big expectations this season, and the fans will have a ton to look forward to, including a bevy of new jerseys to buy.
Here are the Falcons with new numbers — new players are italicized, while current players with new numbers are just bold.
- Lorenzo Carter #0
- Taylor Heinicke #4
- Desmond Ridder #9
- Scotty Miller #16
- Mack Hollins #18
- Darren Hall #23
- Avery Williams #26
- Tae Davis #50
- Kaden Elliss #55
- Jonnu Smith #81
- David Onyemata #90
- Eddie Goldman #91
- Calais Campbell #93
- Joe Gaziano #99
- Bud Dupree #48
- Mike Hughes #21
- Jeff Okudah # 1
- Jessie Bates III #30
- Dee Alford #20
- Liam McCullough #49
The most notable are Lorenzo Carter’s switch to #0, as the NFL enters its first season allowing the number to be worn. Desmond Ridder is back to his college number. David Onyemata has to change jersey numbers as Calais Campbell assumes his long-time #93. Jeff Okudah switches to #1, which fits him very well, and Jessie Bates III sticks with #30.
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