So first of all thanks to MMS for doing this. Really nice to see this laid out.
I think we have a nice nucleus to build from here in Atlanta. Obviously we have the only franchise QB in the division (with a noted TBD on Bradford), which is an excellent place to start. Our backup QB situation needs addressing going forward. BJ Daniels has not proven to be capable at the position, and as of now, our only option for a change of pace has been for Pryor to run a wildcat type offense out of how super slash role. We will likely be exploring options there moving forward.
RB is a significant hole (although, surprisingly, we are not as far behind the rest of the division here as I feared). Injuries have played a role, with Ballard going down. However, it does seem apparent that his real life role may be diminished, so we are likely going to need to consider an upgrade here. I still believe in Hunter as a capable backup.
Tight end needs to be addressed. Gresham is a backup at best moving forward. I actually think we are far worse comparable to the rest of the division here than at RB.
Thankfully, our WR corps is ridiculous. Demaryius and Gordon stretching the field on the outside and Baldwin running a hybrid slot role. I think this is the best 1-2-3 at the position in the league. We are going to going to continue to spread the field and hopefully will be able to stretch defenses to the point that our otherwise middling run game can gain momentum.
The way I build this line, I knew the guards would be the weak spot. I am fine with that. We will be addressing at least one if not both of these positions moving forward. But I love our tackles, and I am ok with our center. I think this is a workable, and while not a super strength, is probably only trails the Saints in the division (although the lack of a 5th starter, IMO, brings that team much closer than the numbers indicate).
Love our front 7 on D. Statistically the best in the division and that's with no Jerod Mayo for the bulk of the season. Definitely some areas in which we will be seek upgrades (Herzlich for one), but I think that this is the best unit in the division.
I didnt love the secondary when I drafted it. But honestly, its not bad. No holes. I think Shamarko will evolve into a slightly above average player at his position. Im not sure there are any "shut down" guys in this unit, but there are no real weak spots to pinpoint either.
Special teams are what they are., Hauschka has evolved into a pretty damn good kicker. Best in the division. Bucs get the edge on punter.
Looking at competition, The Bucs are clearly right there. I see us as an 11-12 win team, with the Bucs at 10+. I have a hard time seeing the Bucs overtaking us as I cannot see Bradford staying upright long enough to get the ball to Dez given Fisher's current state of play. But they are, IMO, a playoff caliber squad.
The Panthers seemed to be the definition of bad luck this season with Cobb, hernandez, martin, etc. This is a team I think may be ripe for a quick recovery, although they badly need an upgrade at QB.
The Saints seem like they have room to grow. Bad luck with injuries there, but still a lot of holes on defense. Despite what the numbers say, I actually think this team, while slightly better at present, may be farther away from true contender status than the Panthers.