The Falcons' recent defensive moves could cause problems for the Saints

The Falcons could build something special with their recent defensive moves.

As important as Atlanta's signing of outside linebacker Matt Judon and safety Justin Simmons is, even more valuable to the organization is the fact that they get in the way of division rival Saints.

By signing Judon from the Patriots, the Falcons have a seemingly huge advantage over Saints tackle Trevor Penning, who struggled in training camp and Week 1 of the preseason.

The teams play in Weeks 4 and 10, and Judon should be able to expose New Orleans' glaring weakness.

Signing Simmons (one year, $8 million) could be even more painful.

New Orleans hosted Simmons on a free-agent visit on August 7, and his decision to sign with his arch-nemesis probably feels as good as lemon juice on a fresh cut.

As bad as the Saints may feel after the Falcons' recent transactions, things can get worse.

The Falcons have a roster that should win the NFC South and advance deep into the playoffs.

Super Bowl LIX will take place in New Orleans.

Could there be a worse outcome for the city than the Falcons celebrating their first league title there? Bourbon Street could be closed.

Atlanta's defense was much improved in 2023 and could be even better in 2024 thanks to recent additions.

The defense improved 16 spots in yards allowed last season, from 27th in 2022 (362.1 yards per game) to 11th in 2023 (321.1 yards per game).

The team's most important offseason move, however, was the signing of free agent quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Before Cousins ​​suffered a season-ending Achilles injury last season, he started eight games for the Vikings and completed 216 of 311 passes (69.5 percent) for 2,331 yards, 18 touchdowns and five interceptions.

The Falcons offense features several talented playmakers, including running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts.

After suffering from subpar quarterback performance over the past two seasons, the offense should be significantly more efficient with Cousins.

And now the Falcons defense has added a star-studded lineup, making this worst-case scenario for New Orleans a little more realistic.