NE Atlanta News

Veteran edge player Leonard Floyd is set to embark on his tenth NFL season, joining the Atlanta Falcons as their most experienced defensive player. Floyd, who will be 33 years old when the 2025 season is underway, aims to let his on-field performance do the talking for a team that has faced recent challenges in its pass rush.

"I'm more of an action-based leader," Floyd explained during his introductory press conference. "I do it by practicing hard, going hard every day. I don't ever really get into the vocal side of it. I always try to lead through my actions."

Floyd's experience consists of 137 starts, making him the most seasoned defensive player for the Falcons compared to teammates like defensive lineman David Onyemata. Atlanta's sack count has been low since 2020, ranking last in the league. Floyd's past teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Rams, and Chicago Bears, have excelled in creating pressure on opposing quarterbacks and frequently made it to the postseason.

Floyd emphasizes the importance of rotation in the pass rush game, likening it to a basketball team. "You want to have a rotation. You want to have players that can come in and do their things, and then other players that come in and do their things," he stated.

The Falcons retain several key players from last year's roster who achieved multiple sacks, including Kaden Elliss, Arnold Ebiketie, and DeAngelo Malone. They will also potentially have Bralen Trice back from injury and have acquired defensive lineman Morgan Fox.

Floyd sees himself fitting into a defense with a lot of young talent, ready to help and be helped in return, working towards achieving team success. "When I look at it, it's a defense with a lot of young cats," he shared. "I'm looking to just come in and just helping them and them helping me also. Do whatever it takes to win."

Floyd also welcomes the addition of more talent, potentially from the free agency market or the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. He's open to Atlanta selecting another proven pass rusher with their No. 15 overall pick, saying, "The more," adding, "the merrier."