FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – During the Falcons' team meeting on Friday following Atlanta's first preseason game, coach Dan Quinn had a slide with the word "LASIK" put up during his presentation to the team.
Why "LASIK" might you ask? See De'Vondre Campbell.
In the Falcons' first preseason game, Campbell dropped back in coverage and picked off Dolphins' quarterback Brandon Doughty – a play he said he wasn't sure he would have made a year ago. After struggling with his vision during rookie season, Campbell underwent LASIK corrective eye surgery this offseason.
Just a few months in, Campbell is already seeing the results (no pun intended, of course).
Based off Campbell's play throughout training camp and his new featured role, the second-year linebacker could be primed for a breakout year.
The Falcons' plan to utilize Campbell's speed and strength in more areas on the field and they plan to do so by get him more involved in the pass rush.
And he's ready to take on more responsibility.
"There's a lot of things I'm capable of doing so I'm just trying to make sure I bring it all out," Campbell said. "Just really trying to maximize my potential."
Not only has Campbell noticed his game change from his improved vision his head coach has taken note of it as well.
"It really did make a difference," Quinn said of Campbell's eye surgery.
Campbell's teammates even have a new nickname for him.
"New vision" is Campbell's new name around the facility, according to Deion Jones.
When healthy, Campbell showed in his first year the type of impact player he can make in Atlanta's defense. The former Minnesota Gopher notched 48 tackles with five tackles for a loss, one quarterback hit, one forced fumble and one interception in 10 games.
One of Campbell's primary responsibilities for the Falcons is the match-up with opponents' tight ends, a role he proved he could succeed in. At 6-foot-3, 234-pounds, Campbell possesses unique traits for his position– something the Falcons plan to take full advantage of this year.
