The Atlanta Falcons came to the Branch ready to work as they prepare to travel to Charlotte to take on the Carolina Panthers. Here are practice photos from Week 14.
The Falcons have a handful of players who deserve Pro Bowl nods, and with voting set to end tonight the time to cast your votes is now.
With the final quarter of the NFL regular season at hand, time to vote your favorite Falcons into the 2016 Pro Bowl is running out.
Atlanta has an impressive list of worthy candidates, headlined, of course, by Julio Jones. The superstar wideout currently leads the league in receptions (109) and receiving yards (1,426), and in first down grabs (71). If he improves his catch rate slightly in the next three games, he could realistically break Marvin Harrison's single-season receptions record, which the former Colt set back in 2002.
At running back, Devonta Freeman's nine rushing touchdowns are tied for the most in the league entering Week 15, and despite only 10 starts, he's gained 851 yards on the ground. Freeman has been extremely valuable in the passing game, too, and has 61 receptions for 498 receiving yards—good for second and third among RBs, respectively.
Freeman's success can be partially attributed to the development of Patrick DiMarco. Arguably the best fullback in the league this season, his cumulative Pro Football Focus grade (12.4) is nearly twice as high as any other NFL FB. His run block grade ranks first by a significant margin, too. For someone who spent all of training camp in a neck-and-neck position battle, DiMarco has been remarkable in 2015 and has solidified himself as a crucial member of Atlanta's offense.
On defense, Desmond Trufant has continued to be one of the best cornerbacks in the game. He's allowed just 24 completions on 45 attempts for 301 yards, which has led opposing QBs to earn a paltry 72.5 passer rating when targeting the 2013 first-round pick. Trufant has also registered an interception and a sack.
Atlanta has some top producers on special teams, as well, none more notable than punter Matt Bosher. His numbers speak for themselves: The 28-year-old's average punt distance of 48.4 yards is the second best in the NFL; on kickoffs, he's created 43 touchbacks, which is the seventh most in the league, and has allowed just 17 returns.
Pro Bowl balloting will conclude on Dec. 14. To make sure the Falcons are well-represented, click here to cast your votes.
