BALTIMORE - In einem bis zum Schluss spannenden Spiel der Atlanta Falcons gegen die Baltimore Ravens mussten und durften sich am vergangenen Samstag wiederholt vor allem diejenigen auf dem Feld beweisen, die noch darauf hoffen müssen, in das 53-Mann-Roster berufen zu werden. Denn bis zu den Roster Cuts am 27. August 2024 ist nicht mehr viel Zeit und die freien Plätze sind rar gesät. Das bekam am Sonntag bereits Wide Receiver James Washington zu spüren, der schon nach dem zweiten Spiel der Preseason von den Falcons entlassen wurde.
Daneben gab es aber auch einige erwähnenswerte Spieler, die während des Spiels gegen Baltimore besonders ins Auge gefallen sind. Die nachfolgenden Drei dürfen sich auch weiterhin große Hoffnungen machen, während der Saison, die nunmehr wahrlich mit großen Schritten näherkommt, Teil des Teams zu sein:
Jase McClellan: Während die Running Backs Bijan Robinson und Tyler Allgeier nur zusehen durften, musste der diesjährige Sechstrundenpick im M&T Bank Stadium auf dem Gridiron sein Talent unter Beweis stellen. Mit elf Carries für 55 Yards erhielt er vor allem in der zweiten Hälfte mehr Spielzeit. Auftrumpfen konnte er jedoch erst in der allerletzten Spielminute, als er den einzigen Touchdown des Spiels und damit die ersten sechs Punkte seiner noch ganz jungen NFL-Karriere erzielte. Mit der Chance, den Falcons zur Führung und damit zu einem möglichen Sieg zu verhelfen, konnte er in der anschließenden Two-Point-Conversion dann allerdings nicht dienen. Dennoch scheint der Rookie bereits auf der Kaderliste zu stehen und mit Carlos Washington, der als Undrafted Free Agent zu den Falcons kam, um Spot Nummer 3 zu kämpfen. Denn die ersten beiden Plätze für die Running Backs des Teams werden zweifellos bereits feststehen.
Get an inside look at the matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium during Preseason Week 2.
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 celebrates after sacking the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 sacks the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 celebrates after sacking the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 celebrates after sacking the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 sacks the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 celebrates after sacking the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 celebrates after sacking the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 celebrates after sacking the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 sacks the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 prepares to take a snap during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 looks to pass during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Andrew Stueber #74 looks on during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons safety Lukas Denis #41 reacts after a tackle during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake on the sideline during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons safety Lukas Denis #41 makes a tackle during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro #98 celebrates after a sack during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Casey Washington #82 lines up during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 prepares to take a snap during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Dylan Drummond #15 lines up during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Andrew Stueber #74 lines up during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris reacts during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Julién Davenport #79 blocks during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
XXXXX makes a tackle during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
XXXXX makes a tackle during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons linebacker Donavan Mutin #45 reacts during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams reacts during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Kyle Hinton #68 lines up as quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 prepares to take a snap during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons long snapper Liam McCullough #49 prepares to snap the ball during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Kevin King #32 and linebacker Donavan Mutin #45 react during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Kyle Hinton #68 lines up during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Carlos Washington Jr. #28 rushes during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Chris Blair #19 runs with the ball during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 takes a snap during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Julién Davenport #79 blocks during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo #6 prepares to kick a field goal during the first quarter of during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons long snapper Liam McCullough #49 prepares to snap the ball during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
XXXXX makes a tackle during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Carlos Washington Jr. #28 rushes during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
XXXXX hits the quarterback during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Kevin King #32, linebacker Milo Eifler #52, and linebacker Donavan Mutin #45 react during the first quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 takes a snap during the first half of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Jayden Price #36 rushes the quarterback during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Bradlee Anae #47 defends during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 looks to pass during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons safety Micah Abernathy #29 and cornerback Natrone Brooks #35 make a tackle during the first half of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Chris Blair #19 runs with the ball during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Bradlee Anae #47 defends during the first half of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive Prince Emili #71 lines up during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus #54 reacts after a fumble recovery during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons linebacker Donavan Mutin #45 looks on during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo #6 on the sideline during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterbacks coach T.J. Yates during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus #54 celebrates after a fumble recovery during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus #54 reacts after a fumble recovery during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons linebacker Milo Eifler #52 defends during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
General view of fans during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive end Demone Harris #91 reacts during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons athletic trainer seasonal intern during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 prepares to take a snap during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Trey Vaval #42 on the sideline during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Chris Blair #19 reacts during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus #54 makes a tackle during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Spencer Brown #42 rushes during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus #54 makes a tackle during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo #6 reacts after a field goal during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Jesse Matthews #86 runs with the ball during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo #6 kicks a field goal during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Jase McClellan #30 runs a route during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke #4 scrambles during the second quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
General view of fans during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Matthew Judo during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback John Paddock #16 looks to pass during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Natrone Brooks #35 makes a tackle during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons punter Bradley Pinion #13 punts during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons tight end John FitzPatrick #87 runs with the ball during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons athletic trainer seasonal intern during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
General view of fans during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback John Paddock #16 looks to pass during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons athletic trainer seasonal intern during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman LaCale London #94 lines up during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons athletic trainer seasonal intern during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Chris Blair #19 runs with the ball during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Natrone Brooks #35 reacts after a tackle during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo #6 covers a kickoff during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons punter Bradley Pinion #13 and kicker Younghoe Koo #6 react after a field goal during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
General view of fans during the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons linebacker Donavan Mutin #45 lines up during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Natrone Brooks #35 looks on during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback John Paddock #16 looks to pass during the third quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Natrone Brooks #35 looks on during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williamson on the sideline during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Jase McClellan #30 rushes during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman John Leglue #66 blocks during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons tight end Austin Stogner #88 and Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman John Leglue #66 line up during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons linebacker Milo Eifler #52 runs down field during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Jase McClellan #30 scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback John Paddock #16 looks to pass during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Jase McClellan #30 celebrates after a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Jase McClellan #30 celebrates after a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Tommy Togiai #62 looks on during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo #6 attempts a field goal during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Jase McClellan #30 rushes during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Jase McClellan #30 rushes during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons running back Jase McClellan #30 celebrates after a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London #5 reacts on the sideline during the fourth quarter of the Preseason Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, August 17, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)
DeAngelo Malone: In den vergangenen zwei Spielen konnte der Linebacker bereits mit sieben Solo-Tackles aufwarten. Insbesondere durch seine Special-Teams-Tackles vermochte der 25-Jährige, der im Draft 2022 von den Falcons an Position 82 ausgewählt wurde, für Überraschungsmomente sorgen und auf der Kaderliste ein wenig nach oben gerutscht sein. Malone zeigte, dass er da und vor allem bereit ist, sich seinen Platz im Team zu sichern. Mit dem Trade von Matthew Judon, der in der letzten Woche für einen Fünftrundenpick 2025 von den New England Patriots zu den Falcons getraded wurde, wird es für Malone als derzeitige Nummer vier im Depth Chart allerdings schwer, einen der begehrten Roster-Spots zu ergattern. Reicht es am Ende vielleicht ganz knapp für einen Platz im Special Team?
Chris Blair: Der Wide Receiver, der vor seinem Signing bei den Falcons Erfahrungen im Practice Squad der Green Bay Packers und in der XFL sammeln konnte, darf erneut sein Glück in Atlanta versuchen. Mit vier von fünf gefangenen Bällen für insgesamt 91 Yards zeigte er dem Coaching Staff am Samstag, dass er bereits mit einem Auge auf einen Platz im Wide Receiver Corps schielt. Blair beendete seinen Tag auf dem Feld mit mehr als 75 % der Receiving Yards in der ersten Halbzeit sowie einem 27-Yard-Catch im dritten Viertel des Spiels. Mit nunmehr 136 Yards in zwei Spielen dürfte Blair wohl die besten Aussichten der drei genannten Spieler haben, jedenfalls einen Backup-Job im Team zu erhalten. Denn hinter den Startern Drake London und Darnell Mooney ist die Wide-Receiver-Basis der Falcons aufgrund der Verletzung von Rondale Moore, die bereits dessen Saison-Aus bedeutete, noch etwas wacklig.
Während also anhand der Liste der inaktiven Spieler bereits deutlich zu erkennen ist, wer seinen Platz im Roster sicher haben dürfte, dürfen sich einige junge Männer noch große Hoffnungen machen – wenngleich auch klar sein dürfte, dass nur wenige eine dauerhafte Chance im Team bekommen werden.
