The Falcoholic Reacts: A new defensive leader

It's been years since the Falcons had a true game-changing, three-down linebacker. While Foye Oluokun had a breakout season in 2020, he wasn't quite the all-around, consistent force that would put him in the Pro Bowl conversation. The last top-tier inside linebacker on the team was Deion Jones in 2017. Analysts once believed Jones was the prototypical linebacker teams should want to build their defenses around. That didn't last long, as Jones quickly declined after an injury-plagued 2018.

Divine Deablo's emergence has made fans appreciate what stellar linebacker play looks like. His ability to accelerate through blocks to make run stops, close in on passes to make plays on the ball, and possess the range to thrive in coverage made a massive difference for Jeff Ulbrich's unit. When Deablo broke his forearm in October, there was a noticeable drop-off from the defense. That is one of the biggest reasons why fans believe he is the most valuable defensive player.