Arthur Blank is excited about the development of the Falcons

“We didn't play our best in the first game of the year,” Blank said. “I thought our defense played well. We didn't allow a single touchdown, then in the second game we allowed one touchdown. There are only three other teams in the NFL that have allowed two or fewer touchdowns. So our defense played well across the board.”

“And our offense really stepped up its game in this last game against a really good team. The Eagles are an exceptional team. The last 1:39 minutes were exciting for everyone, and certainly for me and all of our fans in Atlanta.”

Cousins' health was a topic of conversation after he looked immobile in the first game and the offense seemed limited. The focus changed after Cousins ​​helped the Falcons to a win the likes of which they have rarely experienced in recent seasons. The Falcons had played poorly at the position since trading away Matt Ryan in March 2022 (a process that began with the pursuit of then-estranged Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson). Neither Marcus Mariota nor Desmond Ridder had even average performance over the past two seasons.

That's where Cousins ​​comes in, who can do exactly what he did on Monday night. In the final moments, the Falcons had a quarterback advantage — and a defense that could protect the lead. Blank felt his team's full potential was on display in this win.

“I think we have the makings of a great team,” Blank said. “We have a great defense, a lot of young and experienced talent. On offense, we have playmakers, we have Kirk, who I think has many great years left in his career. So I'm excited.”

“He's done that last drive a lot, but I don't think Atlanta has seen him do that a lot. To get over that hurdle, to get over his injury, all the confidence issues he's had, it's all very positive from that standpoint and sets a positive trend for us for the rest of the year.”

After a third consecutive seven-win season – the second half of a six-year playoff drought – Blank fired coach Arthur Smith. Blank decided against hiring the legendary Bill Belichick and opted for Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, a former Falcons assistant who had made a strong impression with the organization.

“I'm very pleased,” Blank said. “I would say we made a great selection in Raheem. Raheem has put together a great coaching staff, great coordinators – one of them was already here (special teams coordinator Marquice Williams). But other really good coaches as well. Terry Fontenot, our general manager, continues to build a really strong personnel department. They work very closely and cooperatively together.”

“I don't think Raheem has a bad day. Every day he gets up with a smile, full of energy, and he's positive about everything in his life. He's really wired that way. I think that energy carries over to the players. I think when you have the mix of the great veteran leadership that we really have on both sides of the ball and a lot of young players, you get the best of both worlds working together.”

It seems the Falcons will have to be a great team to win the seemingly improved NFC South. The Buccaneers, the three-time defending champions, are off to a good start, winning at Detroit last weekend. The Saints look rejuvenated with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and have beaten the Panthers and Cowboys with a flawless start.

This Sunday will be a great indicator when the Falcons host the Chiefs. But whatever happens in that game, Blank is optimistic about his rebooted franchise.

“We're playing against the team that won the Super Bowl the last two years,” Blank said. “They're the best of the best, so we have to do our best.”