The Atlanta Falcons ended the season with a 34-32 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to finish at 7-9. Here's a recap of the season and what's next:
Season grade: Below average -- The Falcons were picked as Super Bowl contenders entering the season yet finished with their first losing season in four years under coach Dan Quinn. No one wanted to use it as an excuse, but injuries crippled the team, particularly on defense. Starting safeties Keanu Neal (ACL) and Ricardo Allen (Achilles) both suffered season-ending injuries, and Pro Bowl middle linebacker Deion Jones missed 10 games after foot surgery.