The Atlanta Falcons had one last chance to take the lead late in their NFC divisional-round matchup versus the Philadelphia Eagles. Unfortunately, their red zone woes followed them into the playoffs as star wide receiver Julio Jones was unable to haul in a pass from quarterback Matt Ryan in the closing seconds.
The connection between this once formidable duo had been off throughout the entire 2017 NFL season. As a result, there was some speculation that Atlanta would part ways with offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian. However, the Falcons have since dismissed any notion of Sarkisian leaving, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport:
Clearing up one lingering question post-2017 (if it's even a question): Falcons OC Steve Sarkisian is expected to return for 2018 with full confidence of coach Dan Quinn and his staff.
There is no doubt that the departure of former offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan to the San Francisco 49ers left a huge void on the offensive side of the ball. As a result, the Falcons offense took a step back from the high-powered juggernaut they were in 2016. However, they still managed to do pretty well down the final stretch of the 2017 NFL season in Sarkisian's first year as offensive coordinator.
Regardless, it is clear that he must figure out a way to better utilize Jones in the red zone next year after he recorded just three touchdowns during the regular season. Needless to say, finding a way to to get one of the most explosive weapons the ball in the end zone should not be too daunting of a task.
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