NFL teams are approaching the deadline for finalizing their 53-man rosters, with the Atlanta Falcons preparing for their last preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys. The team faces key decisions, particularly in light of injuries to offensive tackles Kaleb McGary and Storm Norton, which have brought increased attention to the depth of Atlanta’s offensive line.
Will McFadden provided his own projection for the Falcons’ roster, noting changes since Tori McElhaney’s earlier forecast. He acknowledged the difficulty of predicting outcomes, especially with evolving injury situations.
At quarterback, McFadden expects Michael Penix Jr., Kirk Cousins, and Easton Stick to remain on the roster. “Atlanta’s quarterback room feels settled at this point. All three have had great moments in camp, and Stick has more than earned his spot after his performance in training camp and the preseason. We’ll see what the future holds with Cousins, but he’s been an asset on the field in helping this team get ready.”
The running back position is less clear due to Carlos Washington Jr.’s hamstring injury. “In her 53-man projection, Tori had the Falcons only keeping two running backs. Her reasoning centered around Washington’s hamstring injury, and the lack of a player stepping up to claim the spot in his absence… If Washington is anywhere close to coming back soon, I’d give him the nod,” McFadden wrote.
Among wide receivers, Drake London, Darnell Mooney, Ray-Ray McCloud, Casey Washington, KhaDarel Hodge, and Jamal Agnew are projected as likely selections. Special teams contributions from Hodge and Agnew were highlighted: “Hodge and Agnew offer a ton of special teams value… I wouldn’t be shocked if one of those two makes it over Agnew because he’s missed time…”
For tight ends, Kyle Pitts, Charlie Woerner, and Teagan Quitoriano are expected to make the roster.
The offensive line remains uncertain due to injuries: “Figuring out what this group will look like is a mystery wrapped inside of an enigma… At the time of publishing, the only reports on McGary are inconclusive…” McFadden included Jake Matthews, Matthew Bergeron, Ryan Neuzil, Chris Lindstrom, Kaleb McGary (pending health), Elijah Wilkinson, Jovaughn Gwyn (for versatility), and rookie Jack Nelson as part of his projection.
On defense:
– The defensive line may include David Onyemata, Ruke Orhorhoro, Brandon Dorlus, Zach Harrison, Ta’Quon Graham, Morgan Fox, and Kentavius Street.
– Six edge rushers are listed: Leonard Floyd; Arnold Ebiketie; James Pearce Jr.; Jalon Walker; Bralen Trice; DeAngelo Malone.
– Linebackers Kaden Elliss; Divine Deablo; J.D. Bertrand; Josh Woods could round out that unit while Troy Andersen recovers from injury.
– At cornerback: A.J. Terrell; Mike Hughes; Natrone Brooks; Dee Alford; Billy Bowman Jr.; Mike Ford are predicted choices.
– Safety roles appear set with Jessie Bates III; Xavier Watts; Jordan Fuller; DeMarcco Hellams.
Special teams projections include Younghoe Koo at kicker—”I believe Koo has done enough to win the Falcons’ kicker job”—alongside Bradley Pinion (punter) and Liam McCullough (long snapper). Lenny Krieg may be considered for a practice squad spot if he clears waivers.
As roster cuts approach league-wide deadlines—teams must reduce rosters before Week 1—the Falcons’ decisions will shape both their active squad and practice squad options ahead of regular season play.
