The Atlanta Falcons have struggled through back-to-back losing seasons that cost former head coach Mike Smith his job and "earned" general manager Thomas Dimitroff a demotion. Yet despite the negativity that has surrounded the team of late, there are some rays of hope. Mainly, quarterback Matt Ryan and wide receiver Julio Jones are still present.
Not only are they present, but ESPN Senior Fantasy writer Matthew Berry believes the latter is headed for a monster season. Berry writes in his bold predictions column that Jones will have a career year in 2015. That's really saying something, considering he's coming off a season in which he posted more than 1,500 receiving yards.
"I say Julio Jones has the best fantasy football season for a wide receiver in the history of the NFL. My thinking: Well, I wanted to do a bold prediction for the guy I already have ranked No. 3 among wideouts, so there you go. But with no run game to speak of and a defense that should struggle, Atlanta should be throwing early and often. Playing the 'X' in Kyle Shanahan's offense, there's a very good chance Jones leads the NFL in targets, and with Matt Ryan as his QB, a very good chance he catches most of them."
It's true that Atlanta's running game was virtually non-existent last season. The Falcons finished the year ranked 24th in rushing yards per game (93.6) and 20th in yards-per-carry (4.0). However, the addition of third-round running back Tevin Coleman and a full and healthy season from second-year left tackle Jake Matthews should provide a boost in that area. And even with the addition of head coach Dan Quinn and rookie pass-rusher Vic Beasley, this defensive unit does not project to be even middle of the pack in 2015.
Regardless of the situation, Jones is capable of producing a historic season. As previously mentioned, Jones posted 1,593 receiving yards and six touchdowns on 104 receptions last year. His only issue since entering the league in 2011 has been injuries. He's missed a total of 15 games throughout his four seasons.
Jones received a massive five-year, $71.25 million contract extension last weekend, freeing him up to focus on football this year. If healthy, watch out.
