NE Atlanta News

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Matthew Judon is set to join the Atlanta Falcons pending a physical after the team agreed to terms with the New England Patriots. The deal involves sending a 2025 third-round pick in exchange for the Pro Bowl pass rusher. This move appeared to invigorate Atlanta's defense during Thursday's practice session.

The Falcons' offense, led by Kirk Cousins and Drake London, had previously excelled in deep-ball drills. However, the defense responded robustly, holding Cousins to 13 of 28 on his pass attempts—a notable dip in his usual efficiency.

"The most exciting thing is this (is) day-whatever-of-camp, the energy has not fallen off at all," safety Jessie Bates III said. "There hasn't been a lot of fights; we're getting really good work... It's an exciting time for the Falcons."

The secondary recorded two interceptions on Thursday. Safety Micah Abernathy intercepted Cousins on a misdirected throw to Ray-Ray McCloud III. Later, A.J. Terrell intercepted Michael Penix Jr., marking Terrell's second interception of camp.

"Coach (Justin) Hood challenged us to start attacking the ball out of the air," Bates noted. "And for it to start with A.J.—I think A.J.'s been dying for interceptions."

Bates mentioned he had a similar opportunity against tight end Charlie Woerner but failed to capitalize due to differing techniques compared to Terrell’s successful interception.

Several players were absent from practice due to injuries: defensive lineman Zach Harrison (oblique), safety Dane Cruikshank (ankle), wide receiver Jakeem Grant (hamstring), and defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro (shoulder). Inside linebacker Nate Landman and defensive lineman James Smith-Williams also did not participate in full-team activities.

Outside linebacker Arnold Ebiketie briefly left practice with an elbow issue but returned shortly after. Tight end Kyle Pitts also experienced minor discomfort but continued playing and scored a touchdown later in practice.

The secondary had an impressive day overall, with cornerbacks Mike Hughes and Clark Phillips III excelling in their respective roles. Head coach Raheem Morris praised Hughes’ performance: "He's had really good production... It's one of those things when it's hard decisions on coaches; that's usually a good thing."

Receivers struggled with drops throughout practice despite strong starts from both Cousins and Penix. Afterward, Cousins practiced additional passes with London, Darnell Mooney, and Pitts, joined by Terrell defending them.

Jesse Matthews performed well during Wednesday's practice and earned second-team reps on Thursday with Penix.

In red zone drills, Pitts, Tyler Allgeier, Carlos Washington Jr., and Dylan Drummond each scored touchdowns despite strong defensive efforts that limited yardage gains by reserve running backs.

Former Falcons wide receiver Terance Mathis attended Thursday’s practice alongside his team from Morehouse College where he serves as head football coach.

Assistant head coach/defense Jerry Gray shared a light-hearted moment with wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard over a disputed penalty call during 11-on-11 drills.