Flowery Branch, Ga – The Atlanta Falcons took the field together on Tuesday for the first time since the last regular season game for voluntary camp. As many smiles that were seen on faces, there were just as much grit showing as they practiced throughout the day.
Both players and coaches were excited to be reunited with teammates and be able to participate in organize football activities, including veteran safety Jessie Bates III.
“I still feel like I’m 21 years old,” said Bates. “Having a new staff, I thinks thats another thing to get excited to walk in. I always get excited when you have to prove to your coaches that you’re that guy.”
The practice was intense and fast-paced during the 11-on-11 drills. Second-year quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., struggled throughout practice but he was elated to be able go up against the defense.
“Excited, we get to be out there against the defense working real football and not just routes on air,” stated Penix. “I feel like I’ve done a lot better with connecting with everybody.. around the team, not just the offensive guys but the defensive guys as well.”
It was also a chance to see the rookies on defense be able to get some action against the offensive unit. The Falcons’ first-round pick Jalon Walker was able to showcase his skill-set in front of his new teammates.
Players and coaches were in awe with some of his traits on the field in person. Kaden Ellis was one of them who was impressed with him.
“Man he’s explosive. Every time coach pulls up one of his clips from individual, it like dang, he’s explosive,” said Ellis. “Today I saw it a few times in our team reps. I know it wasn’t full pass rush for us, you’re not allowed to fully go but darn, that man’s get-off is nice. So, I’m excited about him”
The Falcons voluntary camp schedule includes OTAs on May 27-28, May 30th, June 2nd-3rd and June 5th.
News and Notes
Notable players who weren’t there for the start of OTAs were quarterback Kirk Cousins, tight end Kyle Pitts, wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud, linebackers Troy Anderson and Bralen Trice (still nursing his ACL) and offensive linemen Kaleb McGary.
