The Atlanta Falcons’ recent team scrimmage has provided new insights into the team’s roster decisions as the preseason approaches. The event, held in Flowery Branch, Georgia, allowed coaches and observers to evaluate player rotations and potential starters for key positions.
Wide receiver Casey Washington received attention for his performance while filling in for Darnell Mooney with the first-team offense. According to feedback from the coaching staff, Washington is expected to see limited action in the upcoming preseason game. “At this point? After seeing the significant reps he got with the first-team offense during the scrimmage? I would be very surprised if Washington plays anything beyond one or — maybe — two series,” a source said. Despite stepping into Mooney’s role, it was noted that Washington could benefit from some live snaps to further assess his game speed and readiness for regular season play. “Washington has done a fine job stepping in for Mooney, and this is a prime opportunity for him to establish himself on this 53-man roster. I think he has done so. This is just another opportunity to really showcase that, because — in theory — his reps will dwindle when Mooney returns. If Washington can put some good work on film through the preseason and joint practices, that only makes it harder not to carve a role out for him.”
Competition remains strong at several defensive back positions, particularly at nickel cornerback and safety opposite Jessie Bates. The battles have been described as closer than initially expected: “Very close, Zach. I would argue closer than even I originally thought.” Heavy rotation was observed among Jordan Fuller, Xavier Watts, DeMarcco Hellams at safety, and Dee Alford and Billy Bowman Jr. at nickel cornerback during practice sessions.
“I think both races are ultimately Watts and Bowman’s to win — eventually,” a coach commented about position battles. Veteran Jordan Fuller provides experience if Watts requires more development time early in the season; however, there is confidence that Watts could start as soon as Week 1. Bowman also faces competition but may have more difficulty overtaking Alford immediately.
DeMarcco Hellams appears likely to serve in specific defensive packages rather than as a full-time starter: “Hellams is kind of the odd man out… In my opinion, he is more package- and look-based… It would not surprise me at all if Hellams is more of a role player in this defense than true starter alongside Bates.”
On the defensive line, both Bralen Trice and Brandon Dorlus are competing within an extensive rotation involving multiple linemen and edge rushers. “Well, for starters, the defensive rotation is as robust as I have seen it… Everyone — and I do mean everyone — has taken multiple reps with multiple different individuals.” Evaluators highlighted Trice’s need to stand out during live preseason games after recovering from injury last year: “If he can get some reps back on the field and show that he’s the same guy he was before the injury last year… this next phase of the preseason will be important for Trice.”
Brandon Dorlus has drawn interest due to his versatility along the defensive front: “As for Dorlus, I have been impressed by the way coaches have utilized his ‘tweener’ type build.” During Wednesday’s scrimmage he played both end and interior roles depending on formations.
The Falcons continue their preparations ahead of their first preseason contest as players compete for final roster spots.
