The Atlanta Falcons defense delivered a strong performance during the team’s sixth open practice at AT&T Training Camp, responding to a standout offensive showing the previous day. The back-and-forth nature of camp so far has resulted in both sides of the ball challenging each other as preparations continue for the upcoming season.
“It’s a competitive atmosphere out there, both sides of the ball,” said Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson after practice. “There’s a good period for the offense. There’s a good period for the defense. It’s been back and forth, like I mentioned. They’re giving us some great looks, challenging us with some things. Hopefully they feel like they are getting challenged from us offensively, scheme-wise, too. It’s really fun to just go out to the practice field and hear guys talking crap to each other, and that’s football. That’s what happens when they’re playing real games between the lines on Sunday. It’s a blast.”
On Thursday, Atlanta’s quarterbacks were able to execute plays effectively, but on Friday they faced increased pressure from the defensive front. Rookie edge defender James Pearce Jr. continued his strong training camp by winning reps against various opponents and making several impactful plays.
Defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro also made notable contributions with quick moves that disrupted offensive plays. Zach Harrison has impressed coaches with his versatility along the defensive line.
“The versatility of what he brings to the game is something that really excites you,” said head coach Raheem Morris regarding Harrison. “Monday in practice, he was one of the more physical defensive players that we had and those are the things that I think he’s going to really flourish this year and jump off and have a big jump for us and that’s what we want. I think this system that we’re playing right now has a unique fit for him. I think the buy-in from the coaches, the buy-in from him, the buy-in to all the things that he can do and what he’s willing to do is really what excites me.”
The two consecutive padded practices provided opportunities for full-team drills instead of one-on-one periods, helping simulate NFL game conditions.
Further evaluation of team progress will come with preseason matchups against teams such as the Detroit Lions on August 8 and joint practices with the Tennessee Titans.
James Pearce Jr.’s consistent effort continues to draw attention during camp as he makes key plays on defense including likely sacks and pass deflections.
“Where Rah and I were coaching at before with the Rams, we weren’t really a 7-on-7 operation — to get those live reps in the pocket for the quarterback, to get the pass protection with the offensive line. So we’re able to get a bunch of team reps, which is nice. No 7-on-7. Where you can feel good coming out of the day, but you know there’s going to be a real pass rush in the game. So, those reps have been awesome, just for quarterbacks feeling what the pocket feels like. They know they can’t get hit, but they’re still making those movements they need to try to simulate a game. But all those team reps that Rah has got scripted up have been great.” Robinson commented on using more full-team periods during practice.
Some players missed Friday’s session: linebacker J.D. Bertrand and tackle Storm Norton were not present; rookie safety Xavier Watts did not participate in team drills or practice.
Other observations included strong play from Arnold Ebiketie at edge rusher; an impressive sequence involving James Pearce Jr., Kyle Pitts, and Michael Penix Jr.; missed kicks by Lenny Krieg; highlight passes by Kirk Cousins and Penix; solid performances by running backs Carlos Washington and Jashaun Corbin; defensive highlights from Kaden Elliss; pass coverage by Dee Alford; perimeter blocking by Ray-Ray McCloud; and effective running by Bijan Robinson.
The Falcons will hold their next open practice Monday at IBM Performance Field as part of their preparation ahead of their Week 1 opener against Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 7 inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
