Washington travels to Atlanta in Week 4 to face the Falcons, a matchup shaped by Jeff Ulbrich’s blitz-happy defense and Bijan Robinson’s explosive touch potential. Penix Jr. is evolving, but will face a disruptive front that rotates linemen and keeps pressure on the pocket. Washington’s best path is a ground-heavy approach to keep Penix upright and shorten the game, while Atlanta leans on Robinson as the engine of a sometimes-stilted offense. For fantasy, Bijan remains a top staple; Washington’s backfield could offer some value if the Falcons’ pressure slows the passing game.

Expect a chess-match where Ulbrich’s fronts and linebackers test Penix’s growth, while Robinson’s versatility keeps defenses honest. If Washington can establish the run and force Atlanta to defend both the edge and the middle of the field, Penix’s play-action and designed runs become pivotal. Stream or start Bijan with confidence; Washington’s ability to curb the run will heavily influence the DFS and splash-play upside in this one.

The Falcons named six captains for 2025: Bates III, Elliss, Pinion, Penix Jr., Lindstrom, and Matthews. They’ll wear C patches with tenure stars, covering offense, defense and special teams. Penix Jr. is highlighted as a captain, a strong signal about his role as a potential franchise quarterback as Atlanta eyes a breakout season.

The selections emphasize veteran leadership on the line and in the secondary, plus Pinion’s steadying influence on special teams, forming a balanced leadership core as the team enters the regular season.

The Atlanta Falcons are showing promising signs as training camp opens, particularly with rookie linebacker Jalon Walker making a significant impression. Kaden Elliss, a veteran linebacker, spoke highly of Walker, stating, 'The sky is the limit for that kid.' This praise underscores the high expectations surrounding Walker, who was a standout at Georgia. As the Falcons look to improve their defense, Walker's development will be crucial. His combination of athleticism and intelligence on the field could make him an integral part of the team's future.

Kaden Elliss of the Atlanta Falcons experienced a career-best season in 2024, showcasing his talents as he racked up 151 tackles, five sacks, and an interception. This performance positioned him as a potential Pro Bowl candidate in the upcoming season. His interception came against Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, marking a significant milestone in his career. With the Falcons' offense shifting towards a more athletic approach, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich's strategies will be critical in maximizing the pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which could further enhance Elliss's impact on the field.