The Battle Continues...
With the first two preseason games behind them and two more left, players are still fighting for spots in the Falcons main rotation. In the second preseason game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers, we again allowed different players the opportunity to stand out and try to make the final cut. For the most part, the same offensive players stood out this game as they did in the last game against the Miami Dolphins. Running back Terron Ward followed up on his performance last game by racking up 37 yards on just 9 carries, while wide receiver Reggie Davis was able to rack up 74 on just 4 receptions, one of which was for a 44 yard gain alone. Davis was also able to show what he could do on special teams by gaining 47 yards on two kick returns. From what I can tell, Ward and Davis are looking like two of the only offensive players that might have a secured roster spot so long as they both remain consistent through the last two weeks of the preseason.
Defense in an entirely different story, considering the fact that Dan Quinn likes to have a deep rotation of secondary players and pass rushers. Robert Alford and Desmond Trufant are the starting corner backs without question, however, Quinn is looking to add a few more to the rotation, especially because Jalen Collins is facing a ten game suspension for violating the league's drug policy. Last game we saw Jarnor Jones catch an amazing interception in the 4th quarter. This week it was Akeem King and safety, Quincy Mauger who were able to pick off the opposing quarterback. With that being said, I'm pretty sure Quinn isn't just looking for players who can grab interceptions to make the roster; there are obviously more things that go into playing defensive back in the NFL. Demontae Kazee and Blidi Wreh-Wilson were the standout tacklers at the defensive back position in this game, both having 3 solo tackles.
As for the front seven, both Josh Keyes and Duke Riley were able to follow up on their performances against the Dolphins with similar performances against Pittsburgh. Rookie defensive lineman, J'terius Jones out of Miami of Ohio was also able to contribute by adding in 3 solo tackles. With just two preseason games left, it'll definitely be interesting to see which young defensive backs and pass rushers Coach Quinn chooses to add the rotation.
