NE Atlanta News

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – With two preseason games completed and one remaining, the Atlanta Falcons are approaching the NFL's roster deadline on Aug. 27. Head coach Raheem Morris opted to rest many players in the recent game against Baltimore, a strategy likely to continue in the preseason finale against Jacksonville. An intrasquad scrimmage scheduled for Wednesday may influence final roster decisions.

Senior editor and staff writer Will McFadden has provided his prediction for the Falcons' 53-man roster with exactly one week left before final decisions are made.

Quarterbacks (3): Kirk Cousins, Michael Penix Jr., Taylor Heinicke

Heinicke's performance against Baltimore solidified his position as the third quarterback. Head coach Raheem Morris expressed confidence in Penix and indicated he might not play again this preseason.

Running Backs (4): Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier, Avery Williams, Jase McClellan

Robinson and Allgeier are secure in their roles. Williams has shown significant improvement as an offensive player. McClellan is favored over Carlos Washington Jr., who is expected to join the practice squad.

Wide Receivers (6): Drake London, Darnell Mooney, Ray-Ray McCloud, KhaDarel Hodge, Casey Washington, Chris Blair

Blair’s strong performance against Baltimore secured his spot on McFadden’s list despite initial doubts.

Tight Ends (3): Kyle Pitts, Charlie Woerner, Ross Dwelley

The tight end group remains competitive with FitzPatrick missing out due to extensive playtime against Baltimore.

Offensive Line (8): Jake Matthews, Matthew Bergeron, Drew Dalman, Chris Lindstrom, Kaleb McGary, Storm Norton, Kyle Hinton, Ryan Neuzil

Hinton’s impressive performance edged out Jovaughn Gwyn for a spot on the main roster.

Defensive Line (8): Grady Jarrett, David Onyemata, Ta'Quon Graham, Zach Harrison, Eddie Goldman, Kentavius Street Ruke Orhorhoro Brandon Dorlus

McFadden aligns with Tori McElhaney’s earlier prediction of keeping eight defensive linemen due to strong performances from Street and Goldman.

Outside Linebackers (4): Matt Judon Lorenzo Carter Arnold Ebiketie James Smith-Williams

The addition of Judon clarified this group’s structure while Demone Harris was left out despite a solid preseason showing.

Inside Linebackers (4): Kaden Elliss Troy Andersen Nate Landman JD Bertrand

This quartet provides versatility and depth for the defense according to observations from training camp.

Cornerbacks (6): A.J. Terrell Mike Hughes Dee Alford Clark Phillips III Kevin King Antonio Hamilton Sr.

King and Hamilton's limited playtime in Baltimore suggests their spots are secure following confident performances against Miami.

Safeties (4): Jessie Bates III Justin Simmons Richie Grant DeMarcco Hellams

Simmons’ addition strengthens an already robust safety group. If Hellams is placed on injured reserve post-deadline another safety might be added temporarily from within or externally.

Specialists: Younghoe Koo Bradley Pinion Liam McCullough

Despite a rough second preseason game for Koo he remains Atlanta's starting kicker alongside returning specialists Pinion and McCullough.