NE Atlanta News

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Falcons conducted their final practice before heading to Miami, Fla., later this afternoon for joint practices against the Dolphins.

"You get to hit someone in a different colored jersey, so you can let loose a little bit more," said Falcons running backs coach Michael Pitre. "And the energy levels are gonna pick up a little bit."

The final session at the home facility included a jog-through, position group drills, and an 11-on-11 period with mostly first-team players facing second-team players. Atlanta's running backs were heavily involved during the full-team period. Quarterback Kirk Cousins showed consistency, completing 9-of-10 passes. His single misfire was intercepted by A.J. Terrell.

Camp Champ: Despite no post-practice Falcons Final Whistle podcast due to travel plans, Terrell stood out as the Camp Champ of the day. He intercepted Cousins by reading wide receiver Darnell Mooney's route and making a diving catch.

Rotations: Monday's practice featured significant defensive rotations during 11-on-11 play. Outside linebackers Lorenzo Carter, Arnold Ebiketie, Bralen Trice, Badlee Anae, DeAngelo Malone, and Demone Harris saw action on the edge while Kentavius Street and Zach Harrison worked on the interior. Clark Phillips III and Antonio Hamilton Sr. participated in limited first-team action at cornerback.

Offensive lineman Storm Norton took some reps with the starters in place of left tackle Jake Matthews but also ran with the second group. Tight end Ross Dwelley and running back Carlos Washington Jr. also saw time with the starters.

RB3 Contender: Coach Pitre mentioned it is too early to name a third running back behind Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier; however, Carlos Washington Jr.'s performance suggests he is a strong contender for that spot after receiving his first reps with the first team on Monday.

Washington joined the Falcons as an undrafted free agent from Southeastern Louisiana in 2023 but did not make the 53-man roster initially and was signed to Atlanta's practice squad instead.

"I just think you're seeing a young man that's continuing to get comfortable with the NFL game," Pitre said of Washington.

Preseason Players to Watch: Joint practices will provide insights into how starters fare; however, many lesser-known names will take most preseason snaps during Friday’s game against Miami. Carlos Washington Jr., wide receivers Chris Blair and OJ Hiliare are notable mentions for offensive plays based on recent performances.

Roll Call: Grady Jarrett was absent from Monday's practice following ACL repair surgery but had attended all previous training camp sessions leading up to this point.