Falcons Training Camp Recap: 'Phenomenal' Defense Continuing to Improve
FLOWERY BRANCH -- The Atlanta Falcons offense continues to improve, as evidenced in practice.
And yet, Atlanta's defense still got the better of the offense on Tuesday. Offensive lineman Chris Lindstrom dubbed the defensive line "phenomenal," particularly pointing out his battles with Grady Jarrett and David Onyemata and noting how such repetitions "really, really make us better."
Jarrett has been dominant during camp, living in the backfield against both the run and pass. Nose tackle Timothy Horne has also impressed, ascending into a starting role after the retirement of Eddie Goldman; he's been particularly impressive working laterally in run support.
Another standout on the defensive front is outside linebacker Bud Dupree, who has worked with the first team and proven to be an effective pass rushing presence.
The same is true for third-round pick Zach Harrison, a definite winner of training camp who continues to generate pressure and collect would-be sacks. Granted, Harrison has largely worked against the second- and third-team offensive lines, but he's been legitimately dominant.
Atlanta's linebackers have been impressive thus far, with Kaden Elliss and Troy Andersen starring in run defense; notably, they've been kept clean from offensive linemen, a nod to the success of the defensive line.
It doesn't feel too out of the realm of possibility for the Falcons' run defense to be a top-10 group this season; considering Atlanta's third-ranked rushing attack from last year is poised to improve after adding Robinson and keeping four-fifths of the offensive line, the success the front seven has enjoyed is coming against a legitimate foe and provides real reason for optimism.
The Falcons' second-team linebackers have been Mykal Walker and Nate Landman, who's been one of the more impressive unsung heroes of camp this year.
Behind them, the race for the fifth linebacker spot is rather close between a number of competitors; Tae Davis had a good rep in coverage Tuesday against John FitzPatrick, and his special teams prowess may give him an early advantage over the field.
In the secondary, A.J. Terrell and Richie Grant were the stars of the show, but Darren Hall also impressed. Considered to be on the right side of the roster bubble but still facing work to do, Hall locked down London on a return route before knocking the ball away.
As for the competition at nickel, Dee Alford appears to be the heavy favorite currently, as he's seen most of the first team reps. He's been noticeably physical, and Smith loves his competitiveness.
The Falcons will be back at IBM Performance Center on Wednesday for the third consecutive day of padded practice, this one tipped to be two hours, the longest of the week, while both Arthur Smith and Terry Fontenot will meet with reporters.
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