2017 NFL Power Rankings Preseason Week 2: Los Angeles Rams take major step forward

2. Atlanta Falcons (2)

Rewarding Devonta Freeman with a hefty extension was an obvious move for the Atlanta Falcons, and it was good to see the organization take care of their beloved running back now instead of risking it becoming an issue down the road. Over the last two years, Freeman has worked his way to the top of the league when it comes to running back production, and what’s even scarier is he seems to be just getting started.

Losing last year’s Super Bowl the way they did was beyond crushing for the Falcons, but on a positive note, at least their offense will most likely finish near the top of the league once again when it comes to points per game. Watching Matt Ryan make the major leap to earning his first MVP honors was a huge accomplishment for Atlanta, and the quarterback should continue to play at that high level to be in the running for the second year in a row this season while trying to help the Falcons make another run at the Super Bowl.

While the jokes came out for their first preseason game after blowing a big lead to the Miami Dolphins, this obviously doesn’t have the same level of impact as the Super Bowl. If anything, the Falcons just want these next few weeks to fly by so they can finally begin playing the games that matter the most during September and beyond.