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5 Atlanta Falcons in the roster bubble

Theo

The Atlanta Falcons have arguably more talent and depth than when general manager Terry Fontenot took over ahead of the 2021 NFL Draft.

With four straight top-10 picks (and high-profile second-round picks to go with them), the Falcons find themselves with one of the best young cores in the entire NFL.

With the increase in talent and depth, the competition for roster spots is heating up. In the latest episode of the Falcons podcast, we took a look at five veterans who are battling in training camp for roster spots and playing time. (Five players are listed below the podcast)

DeAngelo Malone, Edge

Malone was a third-round pick in 2022. The Falcons had two third-round picks that year. Desmond Ridder was the other. He played defense as a rookie, but his defensive snap count dropped to two in 2023. He contributed on special teams, but will that be enough to save his job in 2024?

Richie Grant, Security

Grant was selected in the second round of Fontenot’s first draft. He turns 27 in November and has been a disappointment in his three years with the Falcons. His playing time was cut short late last year by rookie DeMarcco Hellams. Despite positive words from head coach Raheem Morris in the spring, the Falcons can save nearly $3 million by getting rid of Grant.

Taylor Heinicke, quarterback

Most of the savings the Falcons could have realized by parting ways with Heinicke were recouped when they re-signed him in the spring. Morris calls him an elite backup, but does anyone really want him taking reps from first-round pick Michael Penix Jr. in training camp, preseason or practice? Heinicke seems content in his role as a mentor to the Falcons, but if he has any desire to play in the NFL again, he may have to look elsewhere.

Avery Williams, running back, returner

Williams was drafted to help on special teams. He was an All-American returner at Boise State and has filled that role well with the Falcons. He led the NFL in punt return average in 2022 and has been asked to play a spot role as a running back. The Falcons added Ray Ray McCloud, a punt return ace who has a better chance of contributing as a receiver than Williams as a running back. Can Williams make teams as a receiver? just a returner with the addition of McCloud?

LaCale London, Kentavius ​​Street, Eddie GoldmanDefensive line

London played 204 snaps for the Falcons last year, and Street started five games after arriving from the Eagles midseason (he didn’t play the last four). Goldman retired with the Falcons twice before taking a snap. The Falcons used three draft picks on the interior defensive line. It’s arguably the team’s deepest position behind running back. After playing significant snaps in 2023, London and Street could be on the outside with Grady Jarrett, David Onyemata, Zach Harrison, Ta’Quon Graham, Ruke Orhorhoro, Brandon Dorlus and Zion Logue all seemingly having roster spots.

Falcons Podcast: Spotify | Apple Pods | iHeart

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