Atlanta Falcons

	The Falcons' Michael Vick completed just 52.6 percent of his passes last season. Simon Bruty/SI
	Training Camp Challenges AFC East: Patriots try to adjust to new stars AFC North: Steelers search for old Big Ben AFC South: Can Addai carry Colts' load? AFC West: Broncos hope Cutler is ready NFC East: Cowboys need to use Owens earlier NFC North: Are Bears suddenly vulnerable? NFC South: Can Vick become pocket passer? NFC West: Niners may be team to beat

Challenge No. 1: Develop Michael Vick into a polished pocket passer.

Vick set career marks for touchdowns (20) last year, but he only completed 52 percent of his passes and tossed 13 interceptions, which matches his career high. His inconsistency as a pocket passer has plagued him for years and has been one of the reasons the Falcons have not taken the next step.

New coach Bobby Petrino thinks that Vick can be the right quarterback to lead his offense. Petrino has given Vick more responsibility by allowing him to audible at the line for the first time in his career. The added responsibility will make Vick more of a student of the game, and help improve his completion percentage by checking to favorable plays versus stacked defenses.

Petrino is also trying to improve Vick's pass protection. Despite his elusiveness, Vick has been one of the most sacked quarterbacks over the past two seasons. Lacking confidence in his offensive line, Vick has sought to make things happen with his legs at the slightest hint of pressure. With better protection up front, he might be more patient and might make better decisions from the pocket.

Lastly, the Falcons have given Vick a legitimate No. 1 receiver in the passing game by signing Joe Horn in free agency. At 34, Horn may have slipped a bit, but last year he did average over 18 yards a catch despite battling injuries. Not only does he give Vick a downfield threat, but also he provides veteran leadership to a receiving corps with limited experience.

Challenge No. 2: Get Jerious Norwood more involved in the offense.

Norwood's big-play ability has already caught the attention of Petrino and offensive coordinator Hue Jackson. Norwood averaged over six yards a carry last season, with two runs over 69 yards. Look for the coaching staff to continue to give him carries as Warrick Dunn's backup and to give him a bigger role in the passing game. His speed and athleticism make him dangerous on the perimeter. Getting him the ball quickly on screens or swing routes should lead to more big plays, but it will take some tinkering with the offense in the preseason to achieve that.

Challenge No. 3: Improve the defense, which will feature several young starters.

New defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer may start five new players this year. Rookies Jamaal Anderson, Chris Houston and Stephen Nicholas are scheduled to start or see significant snaps. Throw in young starters Jimmy Williams, Jonathan Babineaux and Chauncey Davis, and the Falcons could have six players with less than three years of experience on D. With so many young players on the field, Zimmer will have to scale down his playbook and keep things simple. The preseason will be full of mistakes, but if he can keep the young guys focused on execution, the Falcons can actually improve.