FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – When Drake London was asked what would be new and fresh about the Falcons' offense in 2024, he didn't hesitate to reply.
"Ball going to be in the air," he said.
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What I saw during Friday's practice, the second of training camp, makes me believe good things are going to happen when it is.
After a day of heavy play installation Thursday , the Falcons let it rip. The quarterback paired with the receivers early, and it was immediately apparent that this group of pass-catchers have a bit more stop-and-start agility. Rondale Moore was one player I noted a few times for his excellent footwork and suddenness.
And while I was already beginning to center this piece around the receivers in my mind, the quarterback play stole my eyes. There were several remarks about how much more comfortable this passing game feels in camp than in years past. For an offense that decisively invested in the quarterback position this offseason and should throw the ball a bit more, that is an excellent sign.
A brief pause to get all of the disclaimers out of the way – it's required by the football gods' HR department. Yes, it's only the second day of training camp. Yes, they are still only in shorts and helmets. Yes, every team has days when a unit looks unbeatable in camp.
But when Kirk Cousins lofted a tightly-wound spiral deep down the left sideline and connected with Ray-Ray McCloud in stride for a touchdown against a defender in exactly the right position, it makes you clearly envision the same thing happening on Sunday. When Michael Penix Jr. drills a fastball to Moore on a punctual comeback route for a toe-tap, sideline catch against A.J. Terrell, you realize why there is buzz building about what this Falcons offense can be.
And on Friday, the Falcons' pass game was the best thing I saw.
