NFL: Each Team’s Biggest 2015 X-Factor

Dec 21, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram (22) is tackled by Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Paul Worrilow (55) during the second half at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Falcons won 30-14. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Atlanta Falcons MLB Paul Worrilow

Atlanta Falcons 25-year-old middle linebacker Paul Worrilow always has interesting stat sheets. In 2014, Worrilow was one of PFF’s leaders in Run Stop% among all inside linebackers, which isn’t surprising considering the fact that he’s put up 127 and 143 tackles in each of the past two seasons, respectively.

The issue is that Worrilow also missed 21 tackles, which is just inexplicably poor. Perhaps worse yet, Worrilow proved to be a massive liability in coverage, as the former Delaware standout allowed a 130.0 QB Rating in coverage with six touchdowns surrendered compared to no picks and just three passes defended.

Not only does Worrilow need to be more consistent as a run defender, but the Falcons simply cannot tolerate any more embarrassingly poor coverage play from the linebackers.

To his credit, Worrilow has been excellent this offseason, and if his preseason play is to be believed, then he may have turned a corner in his first year under Dan Quinn. Heading into his third season in the league, Worrilow has the talent to right the ship, and if he can cut out enough of those negative plays, then the Falcons could have a star at the heart of their defense instead of a player who was overrated by some fans because of gaudy tackle counts.

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