The Atlanta Falcons are set to host the Tennessee Titans for two days of joint practices in Flowery Branch, Georgia, ahead of their preseason game scheduled for Friday. These sessions are expected to provide both teams with a chance to evaluate their players against unfamiliar competition and gain insights into roster strengths and weaknesses.
Among the highlighted matchups is the face-off between cornerback A.J. Terrell and wide receiver Calvin Ridley. Both were former first-round picks by Atlanta, with Ridley later traded to Jacksonville in 2022. Their previous practice encounters have established them as strong competitors at their positions.
On the offensive line, Matthew Bergeron and Ryan Neuzil will be tested by Titans defensive tackle Jeffrey Simmons. Simmons has recorded 26.5 sacks over the past four seasons and is considered one of the league’s top interior pass rushers.
Attention will also be on Falcons rookie defensive backs Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman Jr., who are expected to challenge Tennessee’s rookie quarterback Cam Ward during these practices. The Falcons hope that these young defenders can make an immediate impact this season.
Another notable matchup features Divine Deablo covering tight end Chig Okonkwo. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris commented on Deablo’s abilities: “He has significant range,” Morris said. “He plays with great length. His vision and key and diagnosis in the box has looked absolutely outstanding in practice. We’ve been able to watch him in coverage. He does it easy. He moves easily. He is an elite mover.”
Defensive lineman Zach Harrison will face veteran guard Kevin Zeitler, who joined Tennessee after a stint with Detroit last season on a one-year contract.
First-year pass rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., both from SEC backgrounds, are expected to compete against JC Latham, Tennessee’s second-year tackle now playing on the right side after his college career at Alabama.
On offense, Kaleb McGary will likely be matched up against Arden Key as he continues his role protecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s blindside—a responsibility that gained attention following improvements in McGary’s performance last year.
These joint practices serve as a critical part of training camp for both organizations as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
