Five Falcons make Pro Football Focus’ top-101 players from 2017

ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 01: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons drops back to pass during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C.  Cox/Getty Images)

Credit: Kevin C. Cox

Credit: Kevin C. Cox

ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 01: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons drops back to pass during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

The Atlanta Falcons had a gifted roster in 2017. According to Pro Football Focus, five Falcons were among the top-101 players in the NFL last season.

Atlanta is tied for the third-most representatives on the list with six other teams. The Philadelphia Eagles have the most players appearing on the top-101 with seven, followed by the Kansas City Chiefs with six.

Leading the way for the Falcons is wide receiver Julio Jones, who ranked 15th. Following him was linebacker Deion Jones (35), center Alex Mack (49), quarterback Matt Ryan (58) and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett (84).

All five of these players are expected to return to the Atlanta next season. The Falcons are also focused on working out a new extension with Ryan, who will look to improve under second-year offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian.