After a pretty successful draft, the Atlanta Falcons have a lot of eyes on them heading into the 2022-2023 season. Fans are excited after some great additions to the offense, such as rookie Wide-Receiver Drake London. In previous seasons, the Falcons have struggled with their defense and aim to turn the tide this year. Fans hope that the addition of edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie will finally help the Falcons maintain a consistent pass rush. It is clear that on both sides of the ball, there is a plethora of talent that will have a lot to prove this year. Surprisingly enough, the Atlanta Falcons player with the most to prove this season only played four games last year — Isaiah Oliver.
Isaiah Oliver And The Atlanta Falcons
Isaiah Oliver was picked up by the Falcons in 2018 after being drafted in the second round. Despite a less than desirable injury last season, Oliver has proven to be a valuable asset to the team, having been brought back for a one-year deal. Oliver struggled to cover receivers on the outside while playing under Dan Quinn. He made a seemingly immediate improvement when Arthur Smith took over and switched Oliver to slot corner in 2021. Oliver had been excelling in this new position, becoming a top defensive player for the Falcons in the early part of the 2021 season. After only playing 4 games in 2021, Oliver tore his ACL while playing against the Washington Commanders.
Road To Recovery
The road to recovery has not been easy for Isaiah Oliver. This situation has uncovered the value Oliver has brought to the team. The injury has shown the impact Oliver has had on the field in past seasons. Saftey Erik Harris explained, “Sometimes you don’t recognize how good things are until you lose it, right? It was one of those situations. I wouldn’t say we took him for granted, but it was one of those things where everything is flowing well, he’s in there, he’s making calls, he’s getting people lined up and all of a sudden he’s gone.” Expect all eyes to be on Isaiah Oliver this season, as he has the most to prove in 2022-2023.