The Atlanta Falcons have a really weird quarterback situation this season. There’s no getting around it. But, don’t worry, because they have some strengths, too.
Now that the new season is getting closer, it’s a good time to look at what the Falcons have going right.
Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports is highlighting his absolute favorite under-the-radar breakout stars for 2026.
“The offseason and preseason do provide plenty of opportunities for individuals to make their jumps from relative unknowns — at least to casual fans — to standouts,” he says.
For the Falcons, he loves safety Xavier Watts. Here’s why.
“The Falcons have an underwhelming quarterback competition between Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa on their hands, and there’s a chance the awesome trio of Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts is held back again by their surroundings,” he says in the piece. Tell us how you really feel, right?
He adds: “But on the defensive side of things, Watts is one of a few intriguing young talents. The 2025 third-round pick notched five interceptions, made 92 tackles and defended 11 passes, finishing fourth in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.”
It’s great to see Watts get some love here. The safety is really an undervalued position in the NFL, at least this writer thinks so, and it’s true that Watts is a special talent who could really have a breakout season in 2026, so bring it on.
2026 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.