The Atlanta Falcons’ first preseason game against the Detroit Lions on Friday night provided significant insight into the team’s roster dynamics as players competed for spots ahead of the regular season. The game was halted in the fourth quarter due to a serious injury to Lions safety Morice Norris, but reports indicate that Norris is recovering well and avoided major harm.
Before the interruption, several Falcons players stood out with their performances. DeAngelo Malone, drafted four years ago and often considered a versatile but underutilized player, demonstrated increased value by playing both inside linebacker and edge positions. Malone finished with five tackles and showed adaptability after injuries to key linebackers last season forced the team to seek depth at that position.
DeMarcco Hellams made a notable return after missing last year due to injury. Competing for a starting safety spot alongside Jessie Bates III, Hellams delivered a strong performance that may influence upcoming decisions during joint practices with the Tennessee Titans. “As we have discussed all throughout training camp, Hellams is well in the fight for a starting job alongside Jessie Bates III. He’s actively competing with Jordan Fuller and Xavier Watts. And of the three, it was Hellams who had the loudest and most notable performance Friday,” said Tori McElhaney.
Quarterback Easton Stick also impressed in his first-half showing, completing 15 of 18 passes for 149 yards and one touchdown despite limited practice reps during the week. “He managed a very clean operation — something that is difficult to do in a preseason setting,” noted McElhaney. Stick’s performance has increased speculation that he could secure one of three quarterback spots on the final roster.
However, concerns emerged regarding other areas of play. The Falcons’ second-team offensive line struggled with run blocking, resulting in just 22 rushing yards on 11 attempts—an average of two yards per carry—with Emory Jones producing the longest run at nine yards. This lack of production marks a contrast from previous seasons when Atlanta’s running game was more consistent.
Defensive back Clark Phillips III’s situation remains uncertain due to an injury sustained earlier in practice and limited impact prior to that setback. Meanwhile, Natrone Brooks has gained attention for his strong training camp performances, possibly affecting Phillips’ standing on the roster.
With joint practices against Tennessee approaching, roster competitions are expected to intensify as coaches evaluate player roles ahead of Week 1.
