SE Atlanta News

Tuesday's practice marked a significant moment for the Atlanta Falcons as they donned full pads for the first time in the 2024 league year. This transition from non-contact practices, held under offseason program rules, was eagerly anticipated by both players and coaches.

"You can hear if it's a good day," said defensive line coach Jay Rodgers. "You hear those pads clash together. You hear those grunts and groans out there. I mean, it sounds different when you're in pads. That's real football."

Head coach Raheem Morris expressed similar enthusiasm, especially for the linemen. "It's hard to say who's most excited, but you got to think the D-linemen and the O-linemen — they have to just be so eager to go," Morris said.

Jake Matthews, left tackle for the Falcons, echoed these sentiments. "I woke up with a little pep in my step today," Matthews said. "I don't think it ever goes away. If I ever wake up and don't feel it, I'll probably retire."

Despite this excitement, the practice wasn't without its challenges. The introduction of pads led to an increase in procedural penalties on the offensive side of the ball, notably false starts. "We got the pads on, guys are excited," Matthews acknowledged. "Part of being a pro is you got lock in on that stuff and fix it."

The Falcons will continue their padded practices throughout the week, including a session at Mercedes-Benz Stadium open to fans who purchase tickets. Next week, they will travel for joint practices with the Miami Dolphins ahead of their preseason opener on August 9 at Hard Rock Stadium.

"This was Day 1 practice for the line to be honest with you," Rodgers stated. "When you put the pads on is when it really starts."

All members of the 90-man roster were present at Tuesday's practice, including international player Kenhinde Oginni who doesn't count toward the training camp total.

Newly signed wide receivers James Washington and Jesse Matthews participated in their first practice with Washington wearing No. 83 and Matthews No. 86. Matthews made an impressive one-handed catch during warm-up drills.

In notable moments from practice, safety Jessie Bates III intercepted quarterback Kirk Cousins after reading an in-breaking route effectively. This marked Cousins' first undisputed interception of training camp.

The competition for WR3 remains intense with Ray-Ray McCloud III frequently seen running alongside starters Drake London and Darnell Mooney while Rondale Moore also received significant attention.

Outside linebacker James Smith-Williams continues to secure first-team reps due to his versatility—a quality favored by Atlanta’s coaching staff.

Left guard Matthew Bergeron was involved in two scuffles during mixed scrimmage periods which highlighted his passion and commitment according to teammate Jake Matthews.

Former Falcons wide receiver Roddy White attended Tuesday's practice along with Steve Wilks, former San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator.

Before practice commenced, Morris announced that season tickets for 2024 had sold out entirely: "The fan base is the most critical thing for us," Morris emphasized.

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