1 day ago
Jalon Daniels entered the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' offseason program as an undrafted rookie simply trying to earn a place in the organization. A few months later, he will open the regular season one play away from being Tampa Bay's starting quarterback, and that unlikely rise has certainly caught the attention of general manager Jason Licht.
Speaking with NFL Network's Sara Walsh, Licht summed up Daniels' path to becoming Baker Mayfield's backup with some significant praise. "There's no blueprint for an undrafted rookie becoming your number 2 quarterback," Licht told Walsh. "Jalon basically wrote his own." That statement carries even more weight given how rare Daniels' situation is. According to Elias Sports Bureau, the last undrafted rookie quarterback to be active for Week 1 was Trevone Boykin with the Seattle Seahawks in 2016. Daniels didn't simply survive roster cuts, either. He beat out veteran Jake Browning for the job and convinced Tampa Bay it could enter the season with only two quarterbacks on its initial 53-man roster.
Licht has made it clear that Daniels' draft status won't prevent him from winning the job. "The number-one thing is, he earned it," Licht said. "It wasn't just given to him."Daniels steadily climbed throughout the summer, but his preseason performance helped solidify his case. He completed 27 of 44 passes for 239 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions while adding 37 yards and another touchdown on the ground. More importantly, Tampa Bay saw poise and command from a quarterback who was supposed to be a developmental project. The Bucs apparently began viewing Daniels differently after their first preseason game against the Jets. Licht said conversations shifted from Daniels needing to prove he could be the backup to essentially needing to prove that he couldn't. He never gave them a reason to change course. There is still considerable risk involved. Daniels has never taken a regular-season NFL snap, and Tampa Bay is trying to contend for another NFC South ****** le. If Mayfield misses time, the Bucs would be handing their offense to an undrafted rookie. Yet Licht doesn't appear interested in keeping a veteran around simply for the comfort of experience. He said Tampa Bay would rather have a talented, prepared, inexperienced quarterback than choose experience just for the sake of it. The Bucs aren't treating him like an undrafted rookie they hope to develop eventually. They've trusted him with one of the most important backup jobs on the roster because they believe he earned it.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Jason Licht's praise shows just how much Jalon Daniels impressed
#daniels #bucs #jalon #simply
Speaking with NFL Network's Sara Walsh, Licht summed up Daniels' path to becoming Baker Mayfield's backup with some significant praise. "There's no blueprint for an undrafted rookie becoming your number 2 quarterback," Licht told Walsh. "Jalon basically wrote his own." That statement carries even more weight given how rare Daniels' situation is. According to Elias Sports Bureau, the last undrafted rookie quarterback to be active for Week 1 was Trevone Boykin with the Seattle Seahawks in 2016. Daniels didn't simply survive roster cuts, either. He beat out veteran Jake Browning for the job and convinced Tampa Bay it could enter the season with only two quarterbacks on its initial 53-man roster.
Licht has made it clear that Daniels' draft status won't prevent him from winning the job. "The number-one thing is, he earned it," Licht said. "It wasn't just given to him."Daniels steadily climbed throughout the summer, but his preseason performance helped solidify his case. He completed 27 of 44 passes for 239 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions while adding 37 yards and another touchdown on the ground. More importantly, Tampa Bay saw poise and command from a quarterback who was supposed to be a developmental project. The Bucs apparently began viewing Daniels differently after their first preseason game against the Jets. Licht said conversations shifted from Daniels needing to prove he could be the backup to essentially needing to prove that he couldn't. He never gave them a reason to change course. There is still considerable risk involved. Daniels has never taken a regular-season NFL snap, and Tampa Bay is trying to contend for another NFC South ****** le. If Mayfield misses time, the Bucs would be handing their offense to an undrafted rookie. Yet Licht doesn't appear interested in keeping a veteran around simply for the comfort of experience. He said Tampa Bay would rather have a talented, prepared, inexperienced quarterback than choose experience just for the sake of it. The Bucs aren't treating him like an undrafted rookie they hope to develop eventually. They've trusted him with one of the most important backup jobs on the roster because they believe he earned it.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Jason Licht's praise shows just how much Jalon Daniels impressed
#daniels #bucs #jalon #simply
1 day ago
The Atlanta Falcons have a supremely talented top option at wide receiver in Drake London, who's considered one of the top-10 performers in the game at his position. Unfortunately, the Falcons also have exactly zero proven options beneath him on the depth chart.
For now, it looks like Jahan Dotson will serve as WR2, even though he's only scored one touchdown over the last two years. Olamide Zaccheaus projects as Atlanta's WR3, but he really should never be more than a No. 4 option.
Rookie Zachariah Branch definitely has potential. However, he'll have to earn his way up the ladder to see real targets - and that will likely take some time. Collectively, this group has been ranked the 20th-best wide receiver room in the NFL, according to CBS Sports.
"If the Falcons had anybody we could remotely rely on behind the fantastic Drake London, they'd rank higher than this. Perhaps rookie Zachariah Branch blossoms early and becomes that guy. But Olamide Zaccheaus and Jahan Dotson aren't our idea of reliable options."
Matt Ryan deserves credit for some late-breaking moves to improve the Falcons roster, including adding Za'Darius Smith to help plug their holes on the edge with Jalon Walker out and James Pearce suspended. The trade for Gervon Dexter is also a huge deal for their interior defensive line rotation.
#london #jahan #olamide #zaccheaus
For now, it looks like Jahan Dotson will serve as WR2, even though he's only scored one touchdown over the last two years. Olamide Zaccheaus projects as Atlanta's WR3, but he really should never be more than a No. 4 option.
Rookie Zachariah Branch definitely has potential. However, he'll have to earn his way up the ladder to see real targets - and that will likely take some time. Collectively, this group has been ranked the 20th-best wide receiver room in the NFL, according to CBS Sports.
"If the Falcons had anybody we could remotely rely on behind the fantastic Drake London, they'd rank higher than this. Perhaps rookie Zachariah Branch blossoms early and becomes that guy. But Olamide Zaccheaus and Jahan Dotson aren't our idea of reliable options."
Matt Ryan deserves credit for some late-breaking moves to improve the Falcons roster, including adding Za'Darius Smith to help plug their holes on the edge with Jalon Walker out and James Pearce suspended. The trade for Gervon Dexter is also a huge deal for their interior defensive line rotation.
#london #jahan #olamide #zaccheaus
4 days ago
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have their initial 53-man roster in place.
After trimming the roster throughout the week, Tampa Bay finalized its first regular-season group ahead of Week 1 against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs kept two quarterbacks, six wide receivers and 10 offensive linemen on offense, while the defense features a young group that includes first-round pick Rueben Bain Jr., Josiah Trotter and Benjamin Morrison.
Here is the Buccaneers' initial 53-man roster, broken down by position:
Jalon Daniels
Baker Mayfield
#roster #initial #first
After trimming the roster throughout the week, Tampa Bay finalized its first regular-season group ahead of Week 1 against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs kept two quarterbacks, six wide receivers and 10 offensive linemen on offense, while the defense features a young group that includes first-round pick Rueben Bain Jr., Josiah Trotter and Benjamin Morrison.
Here is the Buccaneers' initial 53-man roster, broken down by position:
Jalon Daniels
Baker Mayfield
#roster #initial #first
6 days ago
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are continuing to trim their roster ahead of Sunday's deadline to reach the NFL-mandated 53 players.
According to FOX Sports' Greg Auman, Tampa Bay has now made 20 cuts. The group includes quarterbacks Jake Browning and Connor Bazelak, running back Barika Kpeenu, wide receivers Dean Patterson, Eric Rivers and Jha'Quan Jackson, tight ends Devin Culp and Kenny Fletcher, guards Elijah Klein and Nash Hutmacher, and tackle Marshall Foerner.
Defensively, the Bucs have moved on from defensive linemen Jayson Jones, Josiah Green and Travis Shaw, outside linebacker Yasir Holmes, inside linebackers Nick Jackson and John Bullock, and safety Rashad Wisdom.
Tampa Bay also waived kicker B.T. Potter and long snapper Scott Daly.
The most notable move is Browning, whose departure cleared the way for undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels to serve as Baker Mayfield's backup quarterback. More moves are expected before the 6 p.m. ET deadline as the Buccaneers finalize their initial 53-man roster for the regular season.
#roster
According to FOX Sports' Greg Auman, Tampa Bay has now made 20 cuts. The group includes quarterbacks Jake Browning and Connor Bazelak, running back Barika Kpeenu, wide receivers Dean Patterson, Eric Rivers and Jha'Quan Jackson, tight ends Devin Culp and Kenny Fletcher, guards Elijah Klein and Nash Hutmacher, and tackle Marshall Foerner.
Defensively, the Bucs have moved on from defensive linemen Jayson Jones, Josiah Green and Travis Shaw, outside linebacker Yasir Holmes, inside linebackers Nick Jackson and John Bullock, and safety Rashad Wisdom.
Tampa Bay also waived kicker B.T. Potter and long snapper Scott Daly.
The most notable move is Browning, whose departure cleared the way for undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels to serve as Baker Mayfield's backup quarterback. More moves are expected before the 6 p.m. ET deadline as the Buccaneers finalize their initial 53-man roster for the regular season.
#roster
6 days ago
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers appear prepared for an undrafted free agent to back up QB Baker Mayfield.
The Bucs have released backup Jake Browning, who was signed early in free agency this offseason to be Mayfield's backup. That means undrafted free agent Jalon Daniels, who has impressed all summer, is currently the QB2 behind Mayfield.
The 6-foot, 208-pound Daniels, who played six years in college at Kansas, completed 27-of-44 passes for 239 yards and a TD pass, also rushing 14 times for 37 yards and one more score in three preseason games this summer. He was especially sharp in the first two exhibitions, helping spark second-half comebacks against the Jets and Chiefs.
Daniels might have initially been viewed as a longer-term project, but he started impressing the coaches as early as OTAs and minicamps, and he earned praise from the Bucs coaches for his off-schedule playmaking and quick recognition skills, which earned him QB2 reps in camp. Even with a shakier effort in the third preseason game, losing a fumble and completing 8-of-15 passes for 57 yards, the Bucs have been impressed with the rookie.
The Bucs still could look to add a veteran quarterback, with several expected to be released on cutdown day. But for now, Daniels is the next man up. Tampa Bay opens the season at the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1.
#tampa #mayfield #agent
The Bucs have released backup Jake Browning, who was signed early in free agency this offseason to be Mayfield's backup. That means undrafted free agent Jalon Daniels, who has impressed all summer, is currently the QB2 behind Mayfield.
The 6-foot, 208-pound Daniels, who played six years in college at Kansas, completed 27-of-44 passes for 239 yards and a TD pass, also rushing 14 times for 37 yards and one more score in three preseason games this summer. He was especially sharp in the first two exhibitions, helping spark second-half comebacks against the Jets and Chiefs.
Daniels might have initially been viewed as a longer-term project, but he started impressing the coaches as early as OTAs and minicamps, and he earned praise from the Bucs coaches for his off-schedule playmaking and quick recognition skills, which earned him QB2 reps in camp. Even with a shakier effort in the third preseason game, losing a fumble and completing 8-of-15 passes for 57 yards, the Bucs have been impressed with the rookie.
The Bucs still could look to add a veteran quarterback, with several expected to be released on cutdown day. But for now, Daniels is the next man up. Tampa Bay opens the season at the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1.
#tampa #mayfield #agent
7 days ago
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered their preseason finale with several roster spots and position battles still to sort out. Their 19-0 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars may have provided some answers, although not necessarily the ones Tampa Bay wanted. The Buccaneers finished with only 120 total yards, went 2 of 12 on third down and failed to score. Still, there were a few positives buried inside an otherwise difficult night.
If anyone helped themselves Friday night, it was Jack Pyburn. The rookie edge rusher finished with two sacks and three tackles for loss, consistently finding his way into Jacksonville's backfield. Tampa Bay's defensive front produced most of the team's bright spots, finishing with four sacks as Anthony Nelson and Josiah Green also got to the quarterback. Pyburn's performance was especially important as final roster decisions approach. Tampa Bay has spent the offseason rebuilding its front seven, and his ability to provide energy and production off the edge gives the coaching staff something to consider as they build the final 53. Pyburn has certainly played himself into a position where the coaching staff has to find him a spot.
Jalon Daniels had arguably his biggest opportunity of the preseason after being given the start, but he wasn't able to capitalize on it. Daniels completed 8 of 15 passes for 57 yards while taking three sacks and losing a botched snap, a glaring issue over the preseason. After helping lead comeback victories in Tampa Bay's first two preseason games, Daniels struggled to generate anything consistently against Jacksonville. He wasn't helped by his receivers, either. Dean Patterson IV and Kameron Johnson dropped third-down passes early, while Garrett Greene also failed to secure a catchable ball. Daniels' previous performances showed why Tampa Bay has been intrigued by the undrafted rookie, but Friday reminded everyone he remains a developmental quarterback. If there was a legitimate opportunity to overtake Jake Browning for the backup job behind Baker Mayfield, the finale did not do anything to solidify his case.
There isn't much positive to say about an offense that finishes with 87 yards and zero points. Tampa Bay punted on six of its first seven possessions and struggled to protect its quarterbacks, sustain drives or establish the running game. The Buccaneers didn't record a single first down in the second half as Jacksonville's defensive front controlled the line of scrimmage. The offensive line remained a major issue, and receivers failed to come down with the ball. Then came the special teams breakdown that put an exclamation point on the night. Michael Wortham returned a punt 63 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, extending Jacksonville's lead to 19-0 and turning an already frustrating night into a nightmare final score.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: The good, the bad and the ugly from Buccaneers' 19-0 loss to Jaguars
#night
If anyone helped themselves Friday night, it was Jack Pyburn. The rookie edge rusher finished with two sacks and three tackles for loss, consistently finding his way into Jacksonville's backfield. Tampa Bay's defensive front produced most of the team's bright spots, finishing with four sacks as Anthony Nelson and Josiah Green also got to the quarterback. Pyburn's performance was especially important as final roster decisions approach. Tampa Bay has spent the offseason rebuilding its front seven, and his ability to provide energy and production off the edge gives the coaching staff something to consider as they build the final 53. Pyburn has certainly played himself into a position where the coaching staff has to find him a spot.
Jalon Daniels had arguably his biggest opportunity of the preseason after being given the start, but he wasn't able to capitalize on it. Daniels completed 8 of 15 passes for 57 yards while taking three sacks and losing a botched snap, a glaring issue over the preseason. After helping lead comeback victories in Tampa Bay's first two preseason games, Daniels struggled to generate anything consistently against Jacksonville. He wasn't helped by his receivers, either. Dean Patterson IV and Kameron Johnson dropped third-down passes early, while Garrett Greene also failed to secure a catchable ball. Daniels' previous performances showed why Tampa Bay has been intrigued by the undrafted rookie, but Friday reminded everyone he remains a developmental quarterback. If there was a legitimate opportunity to overtake Jake Browning for the backup job behind Baker Mayfield, the finale did not do anything to solidify his case.
There isn't much positive to say about an offense that finishes with 87 yards and zero points. Tampa Bay punted on six of its first seven possessions and struggled to protect its quarterbacks, sustain drives or establish the running game. The Buccaneers didn't record a single first down in the second half as Jacksonville's defensive front controlled the line of scrimmage. The offensive line remained a major issue, and receivers failed to come down with the ball. Then came the special teams breakdown that put an exclamation point on the night. Michael Wortham returned a punt 63 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, extending Jacksonville's lead to 19-0 and turning an already frustrating night into a nightmare final score.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: The good, the bad and the ugly from Buccaneers' 19-0 loss to Jaguars
#night
7 days ago
Quarterback Connor Bazelak fell behind rookie Jalon Daniels on the Buccaneers' depth chart this offseason and he's now off the roster altogether.
Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports that Bazelak is being waived as part of the team's moves to get to the 53-player limit by Sunday afternoon's deadline.
Daniels started the Bucs' final preseason game after making a push for the No. 2 job behind Baker Mayfield this summer. Jake Browning is the other quarterback on the roster in Tampa.
Auman reports that the Bucs are also waiving running back Barika Kpeenu, tight end Kenny Fletcher, guard Nash Hutmacher, defensive tackle Travis Shaw, and linebacker John Bullock.
#bazelak #daniels #auman #reports
Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports that Bazelak is being waived as part of the team's moves to get to the 53-player limit by Sunday afternoon's deadline.
Daniels started the Bucs' final preseason game after making a push for the No. 2 job behind Baker Mayfield this summer. Jake Browning is the other quarterback on the roster in Tampa.
Auman reports that the Bucs are also waiving running back Barika Kpeenu, tight end Kenny Fletcher, guard Nash Hutmacher, defensive tackle Travis Shaw, and linebacker John Bullock.
#bazelak #daniels #auman #reports
7 days ago
In their final preseason game, the Buccaneers were blanked by the Jacksonville Jaguars 0-19, capping off what was otherwise a solid preseason for Tampa Bay. The Bucs were disappointing, especially on offense, which couldn't get anything going regardless of who was under center, and on special teams, which reverted to old bad habits. The defense largely held up its end thanks to another great night of pass rush and secondary play. A solid defensive effort went for naught thanks to the offensive implosion, which likely saw the end of Jalon Daniels' hopes to be Baker Mayfield's primary backup.
Here are the studs and duds from the Bucs' preseason finale loss to the Jaguars:
By all appearances, Jalon Daniels was auditioning for the rare third quarterback spot on the Bucs' 53-man roster. Unfortunately for him, it went almost as badly as it could have against the Jaguars. Daniels was sharp early, but his receivers were anything but. Then came the fumbled snap in the second quarter, a problem that carried over from last week's matchup against the Chiefs.
Daniels then took three sacks, three more than in any previous preseason game. He finished with just eight completions on 15 attempts and just 57 pass yards. While Daniels remains the Bucs' most dynamic quarterback from the preseason, it is unlikely he did enough to prove himself reliable enough to overtake Jake Browning as QB2.
One of Tampa Bay's few highlights was the play of its outside linebackers, who frustrated the Jaguars' offense all night. David Walker was unstoppable once again, winning a third of his pass rushes per PFF. Anthony Nelson continued his productive preseason, recording a sack and a quarterback hit. Jack Pyburn played like someone who did not plan on playing for LSU this year, leading the team with two sacks, three tackles for a loss and two quarterback hits. Tampa Bay's edge rush looks much improved from last year heading into this season.
#jaguars #quarterback #pass
Here are the studs and duds from the Bucs' preseason finale loss to the Jaguars:
By all appearances, Jalon Daniels was auditioning for the rare third quarterback spot on the Bucs' 53-man roster. Unfortunately for him, it went almost as badly as it could have against the Jaguars. Daniels was sharp early, but his receivers were anything but. Then came the fumbled snap in the second quarter, a problem that carried over from last week's matchup against the Chiefs.
Daniels then took three sacks, three more than in any previous preseason game. He finished with just eight completions on 15 attempts and just 57 pass yards. While Daniels remains the Bucs' most dynamic quarterback from the preseason, it is unlikely he did enough to prove himself reliable enough to overtake Jake Browning as QB2.
One of Tampa Bay's few highlights was the play of its outside linebackers, who frustrated the Jaguars' offense all night. David Walker was unstoppable once again, winning a third of his pass rushes per PFF. Anthony Nelson continued his productive preseason, recording a sack and a quarterback hit. Jack Pyburn played like someone who did not plan on playing for LSU this year, leading the team with two sacks, three tackles for a loss and two quarterback hits. Tampa Bay's edge rush looks much improved from last year heading into this season.
#jaguars #quarterback #pass
14 days ago
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Rookie Jalon Daniels led three second-half scoring drives to help the Tampa Bay Buccaneers rally for a 16-15 preseason victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday night.
Daniels tossed a 2-yard touchdown pass to Ko Kieft, Sean Tucker scored on a 1-yard run and B.T. Potter kicked a 46-yard field goal for the Bucs (2-0), who trailed 9-0 at halftime.
Harrison Butker kicked three field goals for Kansas City (0-2), including a 69-yarder on the final play of the first half. But what appeared to be a stellar performance soured when he missed an extra-point in the third quarter and then was wide right on a 43-yard field goal attempt that would have given the Chiefs the lead in the closing minutes.
Baker Mayfield, entering a contract year after leading the Bucs to the playoffs two of the past three seasons, started and played two series in his first preseason action since 2024. He was 2 of 4 for 10 yards before being replaced by backup Jack Browning late in the first quarter.
With three-time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes sitting out, Justin Fields opened at quarterback for the Chiefs, who have not said whether Mahomes will play in next week's preseason finale against Seattle. The two-time league MVP is coming back from a knee injury suffered last December and has been a full participant in training camp practices.
#chiefs #first #kansas #city
Daniels tossed a 2-yard touchdown pass to Ko Kieft, Sean Tucker scored on a 1-yard run and B.T. Potter kicked a 46-yard field goal for the Bucs (2-0), who trailed 9-0 at halftime.
Harrison Butker kicked three field goals for Kansas City (0-2), including a 69-yarder on the final play of the first half. But what appeared to be a stellar performance soured when he missed an extra-point in the third quarter and then was wide right on a 43-yard field goal attempt that would have given the Chiefs the lead in the closing minutes.
Baker Mayfield, entering a contract year after leading the Bucs to the playoffs two of the past three seasons, started and played two series in his first preseason action since 2024. He was 2 of 4 for 10 yards before being replaced by backup Jack Browning late in the first quarter.
With three-time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes sitting out, Justin Fields opened at quarterback for the Chiefs, who have not said whether Mahomes will play in next week's preseason finale against Seattle. The two-time league MVP is coming back from a knee injury suffered last December and has been a full participant in training camp practices.
#chiefs #first #kansas #city
18 days ago
Here comes some help for Atlanta's pass rush, and from a source that would have seemed mighty unlikely even a month ago.
The Falcons announced Tuesday morning that they had signed Za'Darius Smith to a one year contract, bringing the 34-year-old into the fold after the team lost Jalon Walker for the year to injury and learned they will be without James Pearce Jr. for the first eight games of the season. The three-time Pro Bowler has 70.5 career sacks to his name over an 11 year career that has seen him play for the Ravens, Packers, Vikings, Browns, Lions, and Eagles.
The reason this signing is a surprise is that until quite recently, Smith was retired. He un-retired and worked out for the Browns, where he was widely expected to sign, but then wound up joining Atlanta instead.
The appeal of Smith is very easy to understand for the Falcons, who need experienced, productive players in their edge group. While Smith appeared in just five games a year ago for the Eagles, he's been an ****** et as a pass rusher in every single year of his career and just had nine sacks back in 2024. ****** uming Smith is healthy and can ramp up quickly, he'll be a prominent piece of the rotation immediately, and both his size and history of providing solid run defense should earn him significant snaps out of the gate.
Smith will join Azeez Ojulari, Samson Ebukam, Cameron Thomas, and Bralen Trice at outside linebacker, and it would not stun me to see the team add one more player between now and Week 1.
#smith #Browns
The Falcons announced Tuesday morning that they had signed Za'Darius Smith to a one year contract, bringing the 34-year-old into the fold after the team lost Jalon Walker for the year to injury and learned they will be without James Pearce Jr. for the first eight games of the season. The three-time Pro Bowler has 70.5 career sacks to his name over an 11 year career that has seen him play for the Ravens, Packers, Vikings, Browns, Lions, and Eagles.
The reason this signing is a surprise is that until quite recently, Smith was retired. He un-retired and worked out for the Browns, where he was widely expected to sign, but then wound up joining Atlanta instead.
The appeal of Smith is very easy to understand for the Falcons, who need experienced, productive players in their edge group. While Smith appeared in just five games a year ago for the Eagles, he's been an ****** et as a pass rusher in every single year of his career and just had nine sacks back in 2024. ****** uming Smith is healthy and can ramp up quickly, he'll be a prominent piece of the rotation immediately, and both his size and history of providing solid run defense should earn him significant snaps out of the gate.
Smith will join Azeez Ojulari, Samson Ebukam, Cameron Thomas, and Bralen Trice at outside linebacker, and it would not stun me to see the team add one more player between now and Week 1.
#smith #Browns
18 days ago
The Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran edge rusher Za'Darius Smith to a one-year, $6 million contract that could be worth up to $8 million with incentives. After losing Jalon Walker for the season with a torn ACL and James Pearce Jr. to an eight-game suspension, the Falcons needed some help along the edge.
Smith, a three-time Pro Bowler, has recorded 343 tackles (223 solo), 70.5 career sacks and 176 QB hits since entering the league as a fourth-round pick with the Baltimore Ravens in 2015. After spending his four NFL years with the Ravens (2015-2018), Smith signed with the Green Bay Packers in free agency and had the most productive two-year stretch of his career.
The 33-year-old made two Pro Bowls in Green Bay and recorded 26 sacks (13.5 in 2019 and 12.5 in 2020). Over the last four seasons, Smith has played for the Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles.
Since the Falcons had a roster spot available, no corresponding move was needed. Smith will wear the No. 91 this season, according to the team's official website. Check out the Falcons' updated 90-man roster below.
Michael Penix Jr. (9)
#falcons #year #since #signed
Smith, a three-time Pro Bowler, has recorded 343 tackles (223 solo), 70.5 career sacks and 176 QB hits since entering the league as a fourth-round pick with the Baltimore Ravens in 2015. After spending his four NFL years with the Ravens (2015-2018), Smith signed with the Green Bay Packers in free agency and had the most productive two-year stretch of his career.
The 33-year-old made two Pro Bowls in Green Bay and recorded 26 sacks (13.5 in 2019 and 12.5 in 2020). Over the last four seasons, Smith has played for the Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles.
Since the Falcons had a roster spot available, no corresponding move was needed. Smith will wear the No. 91 this season, according to the team's official website. Check out the Falcons' updated 90-man roster below.
Michael Penix Jr. (9)
#falcons #year #since #signed
18 days ago
After a flirtation with returning to Cleveland, veteran defensive end Za'Darius Smith has decided to go to Atlanta instead.
Smith has signed a one-year deal with the Falcons, the team announced this morning.
The signing comes a day after Smith worked out for the Falcons, news that came as a surprise because there had been reports he would sign with the Browns. Smith apparently liked the Falcons' offer better, and they might have increased their offer as a result of losing two defensive ends this month: James Pearce Jr. was suspended for eight games by the NFL, and Jalon Walker suffered a season-ending knee injury on August 4.
Smith previously played for Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski in Cleveland in 2023 and 2024.
Last year Smith signed a one-year, $9 million contract with the Eagles, only to leave the team after five games and announce his retirement. But now he has decided to return to the field. And he'll give the Falcons the depth at defensive end they needed.
#smith #defensive #team
Smith has signed a one-year deal with the Falcons, the team announced this morning.
The signing comes a day after Smith worked out for the Falcons, news that came as a surprise because there had been reports he would sign with the Browns. Smith apparently liked the Falcons' offer better, and they might have increased their offer as a result of losing two defensive ends this month: James Pearce Jr. was suspended for eight games by the NFL, and Jalon Walker suffered a season-ending knee injury on August 4.
Smith previously played for Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski in Cleveland in 2023 and 2024.
Last year Smith signed a one-year, $9 million contract with the Eagles, only to leave the team after five games and announce his retirement. But now he has decided to return to the field. And he'll give the Falcons the depth at defensive end they needed.
#smith #defensive #team
20 days ago
The New York Jets (0-1) opened the 2026 NFL preseason with the goal of putting forth a better product than they did during the this campaign. New York made various moves over the course of the offseason to improve the team, such as trading for quarterback Geno Smith, but their first test came Friday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) and it didn't go as planned.
The Jets lost to the Buccaneers 24-16 mostly with players like quarterback Brady Cook, who are competing for playing time for next season.
However, the story of the game was Smith not starting. It was fourth-round rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik who started instead. With his effort put forward, Klubnik was the standout.
Quarterback Jalon Daniels led the way for the Buccaneers competing 10-of-15 passes for 111 yards while wide receiver Garrett Greene caught 4-of-7 targets for 54 yards. Like the Jets, the Bucs did not play their starting quarterback in Baker Mayfield either.
With that, here is Jets Wire's stock report following Week 1 of the preseason:
#york #smith #like #preseason
The Jets lost to the Buccaneers 24-16 mostly with players like quarterback Brady Cook, who are competing for playing time for next season.
However, the story of the game was Smith not starting. It was fourth-round rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik who started instead. With his effort put forward, Klubnik was the standout.
Quarterback Jalon Daniels led the way for the Buccaneers competing 10-of-15 passes for 111 yards while wide receiver Garrett Greene caught 4-of-7 targets for 54 yards. Like the Jets, the Bucs did not play their starting quarterback in Baker Mayfield either.
With that, here is Jets Wire's stock report following Week 1 of the preseason:
#york #smith #like #preseason
21 days ago
Unrivaled, the 3v3 women's basketball league, signed two LSU women's basketball players to its "The Future is Unrivaled" class of 2026. Jada Williams and Mikaylah Williams were two of nine players included in an announcement by the league on Friday.
The pair of experienced guards are among the college game's top players signed to the class. Fellow SEC stars Madison Booker and Joyce Edwards also made the cut alongside UConn's Sarah Strong and KK Arnold. Michigan's Olivia Olson, Notre Dame's Hannah Hidalgo and Ohio State's Jaloni Cambridge roundup the group.
Last year, Flau'Jae Johnson and MiLaysia Fulwiley signed with Unrivaled in the inaugural class, which included 14 players. Johnson currently plays for the Seattle Storm in the WNBA after four seasons in Baton Rouge while Fulwiley returns for a second season under head coach Kim Mulkey.
Jada Williams signed with the Tigers and projects to be the starting point guard in 2026-27. She fills an immediate need after Jada Richard departed for Ole Miss. A proven floor general, Williams averaged 15.3 points, 7.7 **** ists and 3.5 rebounds per game with Iowa State last year.
Mikaylah Williams started for LSU immediately upon her arrival to campus. The rising senior plays inside and out on both ends of the court. She averages 15.4 points and 4.9 rebounds per game on 48% shooting from the field across three seasons with the Tigers.
#class #johnson #tigers
The pair of experienced guards are among the college game's top players signed to the class. Fellow SEC stars Madison Booker and Joyce Edwards also made the cut alongside UConn's Sarah Strong and KK Arnold. Michigan's Olivia Olson, Notre Dame's Hannah Hidalgo and Ohio State's Jaloni Cambridge roundup the group.
Last year, Flau'Jae Johnson and MiLaysia Fulwiley signed with Unrivaled in the inaugural class, which included 14 players. Johnson currently plays for the Seattle Storm in the WNBA after four seasons in Baton Rouge while Fulwiley returns for a second season under head coach Kim Mulkey.
Jada Williams signed with the Tigers and projects to be the starting point guard in 2026-27. She fills an immediate need after Jada Richard departed for Ole Miss. A proven floor general, Williams averaged 15.3 points, 7.7 **** ists and 3.5 rebounds per game with Iowa State last year.
Mikaylah Williams started for LSU immediately upon her arrival to campus. The rising senior plays inside and out on both ends of the court. She averages 15.4 points and 4.9 rebounds per game on 48% shooting from the field across three seasons with the Tigers.
#class #johnson #tigers
22 days ago
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Jets open their 2026 preseason Friday night at MetLife Stadium after spending two days competing against each other in joint practices this week.
Jul 31, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jalon Daniels (10) participates in training camp at AdventHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
When: Friday, August 14, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM ET
TV Channel: NBC
#Friday #daniels
Jul 31, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jalon Daniels (10) participates in training camp at AdventHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
When: Friday, August 14, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM ET
TV Channel: NBC
#Friday #daniels
22 days ago
The Atlanta Falcons received some big news ahead of Friday's preseason opener against the Denver Broncos. Edge rusher James Pearce Jr. has been suspended for the first eight games of the season for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, the league announced on Friday.
While the suspension was expected, it's still a major blow to an Atlanta defense that just lost Jalon Walker for the season with a torn ACL. Pearce is still allowed to play in all three preseason games, and is expected to be out there for Friday's opener against the Broncos.
"James Pearce Jr. of the Atlanta Falcons is suspended for the club's first eight regular season games without pay for violating the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy," the league wrote in a statement. "The suspension will begin on August 30 and he will be eligible for reinstatement on Monday, November 2."
Let's take a look at how those around the NFL reacted to Pearce's suspension on social media.
Posts by AdamSchefter
#atlanta #falcons #Broncos
While the suspension was expected, it's still a major blow to an Atlanta defense that just lost Jalon Walker for the season with a torn ACL. Pearce is still allowed to play in all three preseason games, and is expected to be out there for Friday's opener against the Broncos.
"James Pearce Jr. of the Atlanta Falcons is suspended for the club's first eight regular season games without pay for violating the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy," the league wrote in a statement. "The suspension will begin on August 30 and he will be eligible for reinstatement on Monday, November 2."
Let's take a look at how those around the NFL reacted to Pearce's suspension on social media.
Posts by AdamSchefter
#atlanta #falcons #Broncos
22 days ago
Atlanta Falcons edge James Pearce Jr. has been suspended for the first eight games of the 2026 NFL season for violating the league's personal conduct policy, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Friday afternoon.
"Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. is being suspended eight regular-season games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy," wrote Schefter. "Pearce was arrested in February, in Doral, Florida, after a domestic dispute involving his ex-girlfriend, Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson."
Pearce led all rookies with 10.5 sacks last season and finished as a finalist for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award. His absence is another major blow to a defense that just lost starting edge Jalon Walker for the season with a torn ACL.
The Falcons have been preparing for Pearce's suspension, signing veteran edge rushers Azeez Ojulari and Samson Ebukam to one-year deals in free agency. Both players have starting experience and should have no trouble filling in for Pearce and Walker in defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich's defensive scheme.
"Whether a guy gets fined or hurt, there are always so many things at play at this level," Ulbrich recently said regarding Pearce's potential absence. "The guys that are here today are the ones we're going to ride with and develop and feature. We're just going to coach the guys we have the best we can and go from there."
#schefter
"Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. is being suspended eight regular-season games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy," wrote Schefter. "Pearce was arrested in February, in Doral, Florida, after a domestic dispute involving his ex-girlfriend, Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson."
Pearce led all rookies with 10.5 sacks last season and finished as a finalist for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award. His absence is another major blow to a defense that just lost starting edge Jalon Walker for the season with a torn ACL.
The Falcons have been preparing for Pearce's suspension, signing veteran edge rushers Azeez Ojulari and Samson Ebukam to one-year deals in free agency. Both players have starting experience and should have no trouble filling in for Pearce and Walker in defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich's defensive scheme.
"Whether a guy gets fined or hurt, there are always so many things at play at this level," Ulbrich recently said regarding Pearce's potential absence. "The guys that are here today are the ones we're going to ride with and develop and feature. We're just going to coach the guys we have the best we can and go from there."
#schefter
24 days ago
Despite all their talent on both sides of the ball, the Atlanta Falcons have been getting consistently disrespected in power rankings and projections from the national media this offseason. Fully healthy and with a decent starting quarterback, Atlanta should be able to take the NFC South division this year.
However, it seems few around the league are buying what Kevin Stefanski and Co. are selling. In fact, some ***** ysts are predicting a last-place finish for the Falcons in the league's worst division.
That includes Moe Moton at Bleacher Report, who has Atlanta ending the year at 5-12, good for fourth place.
"Atlanta won't be able to slow down opponents without a respectable pass rush. According to Josh Kendall of The Athletic, Falcons edge-rusher James Pearce Jr. has been charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing police and resisting an officer with violence... Pearce has not been convicted of any offense. Last week, fellow edge-rusher Jalon Walker tore his ACL. If Tua Tagovailoa wins the starting quarterback job over Michael Penix Jr., who is still recovering from knee surgery, he will need another 4,600-plus-yard passing season to keep the Falcons out of the NFC South basement."
The twin blows of losing Jalon Walker for the year to an ACL tear and the coming suspension of Pearce (likely for at least half the season) have several ***** ysts down on Atlanta going into the preseason, understandably.
#quarterback
However, it seems few around the league are buying what Kevin Stefanski and Co. are selling. In fact, some ***** ysts are predicting a last-place finish for the Falcons in the league's worst division.
That includes Moe Moton at Bleacher Report, who has Atlanta ending the year at 5-12, good for fourth place.
"Atlanta won't be able to slow down opponents without a respectable pass rush. According to Josh Kendall of The Athletic, Falcons edge-rusher James Pearce Jr. has been charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing police and resisting an officer with violence... Pearce has not been convicted of any offense. Last week, fellow edge-rusher Jalon Walker tore his ACL. If Tua Tagovailoa wins the starting quarterback job over Michael Penix Jr., who is still recovering from knee surgery, he will need another 4,600-plus-yard passing season to keep the Falcons out of the NFC South basement."
The twin blows of losing Jalon Walker for the year to an ACL tear and the coming suspension of Pearce (likely for at least half the season) have several ***** ysts down on Atlanta going into the preseason, understandably.
#quarterback
25 days ago
Jake Browning was slated to start at quarterback for the Buccaneers in Thursday's preseason game against the Jets, but those plans may have to change.
Per multiple reports from Tuesday's joint practice with the Jets, Browning had to leave the field during team drills. The quarterback was described as walking gingerly as he made his way off to meet with members of the training staff.
During a post-practice press conference, head coach Todd Bowles confirmed that the plan was for Browning to start and said he didn't have an update on his condition.
"Not at this time, no," Bowles said.
Connor Bazelak replaced Browning in the practice. Rookie Jalon Daniels is the fourth quarterback in Tampa and may join Bazelak as the only available quarterbacks Thursday because Baker Mayfield will not play.
#bazelak #start #todd
Per multiple reports from Tuesday's joint practice with the Jets, Browning had to leave the field during team drills. The quarterback was described as walking gingerly as he made his way off to meet with members of the training staff.
During a post-practice press conference, head coach Todd Bowles confirmed that the plan was for Browning to start and said he didn't have an update on his condition.
"Not at this time, no," Bowles said.
Connor Bazelak replaced Browning in the practice. Rookie Jalon Daniels is the fourth quarterback in Tampa and may join Bazelak as the only available quarterbacks Thursday because Baker Mayfield will not play.
#bazelak #start #todd
27 days ago
The Atlanta Falcons have the day off but will return on Monday afternoon for their third round of training camp practices. With the team's first preseason game less than a week away, practice should only intensify over the next few days.
The Falcons recently made a few changes to their 90-man roster, releasing former second-round pick Troy Andersen and signing veteran wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson. Andersen's promising start to his NFL career was slowed by injuries and now he will have to look for another chance elsewhere.
The team also placed linebacker Jalon Walker on the injured reserve list and signed defensive back Keidron Smith to the roster in a corresponding move.
Since we have a minute before Atlanta's next practice, here's a quick rundown of the team's updated 90-man roster including uniform numbers.
Michael Penix Jr. (9)
#falcons #round #atlanta #kristian
The Falcons recently made a few changes to their 90-man roster, releasing former second-round pick Troy Andersen and signing veteran wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson. Andersen's promising start to his NFL career was slowed by injuries and now he will have to look for another chance elsewhere.
The team also placed linebacker Jalon Walker on the injured reserve list and signed defensive back Keidron Smith to the roster in a corresponding move.
Since we have a minute before Atlanta's next practice, here's a quick rundown of the team's updated 90-man roster including uniform numbers.
Michael Penix Jr. (9)
#falcons #round #atlanta #kristian
1 month ago
The Atlanta Falcons have a few big question marks on defense as they prepare for their preseason opener next week. With linebacker Jalon Walker officially out for the season due to a torn ACL, and James Pearce Jr. facing a possible suspension, Atlanta's pass rush may have trouble replicating last year's success.
The team has gone through its first seven training camp practices, but there are a few other starting spots on defense that remain unsettled. Billy Bowman Jr. is on the active PUP list as he works his way back from an Achilles injury, while Zach Harrison is on the active non-football injury list.
The Falcons are still working out their nickel rotation, and considering the severity of Bowman's injury, I could see the team being cautious with their projected starter going into Week 1. Even though I believe rookie Avieon Terrell will ultimately play on the outside, it wouldn't surprise me if he fills in for Bowman to start the season.
Harrison is not dealing with as severe of an injury, and I think he could be cleared by Week 1. At linebacker, Divine Deablo is set to wear the green dot, but there's still some uncertainty at the other starting spot.
Christian Harris appears to be the first in line, but don't sleep on rookies Kendal Daniels or Harold Perkins for this spot. With all of that said, here's a look at our projected Week 1 starting lineup for the Falcons defense.
#injury #starting
The team has gone through its first seven training camp practices, but there are a few other starting spots on defense that remain unsettled. Billy Bowman Jr. is on the active PUP list as he works his way back from an Achilles injury, while Zach Harrison is on the active non-football injury list.
The Falcons are still working out their nickel rotation, and considering the severity of Bowman's injury, I could see the team being cautious with their projected starter going into Week 1. Even though I believe rookie Avieon Terrell will ultimately play on the outside, it wouldn't surprise me if he fills in for Bowman to start the season.
Harrison is not dealing with as severe of an injury, and I think he could be cleared by Week 1. At linebacker, Divine Deablo is set to wear the green dot, but there's still some uncertainty at the other starting spot.
Christian Harris appears to be the first in line, but don't sleep on rookies Kendal Daniels or Harold Perkins for this spot. With all of that said, here's a look at our projected Week 1 starting lineup for the Falcons defense.
#injury #starting
1 month ago
The NFL's preseason starts Thursday night with the Hall of Fame Game, and 30 teams won't have their first preseason game until next week.
And already, some clubs are probably wishing training camp and the preseason was over.
August is necessary for NFL teams but also can be costly. Some franchises have already taken on season-changing injuries. The 49ers have lost receiver Ricky Pearsall for the season with a recurring knee problem. The Panthers saw young pass rusher Nic Scourton suffer a torn ACL and rookie receiver Chris Brazzell II also suffer a season-ending knee injury. The Falcons lost last year's first-round draft pick, edge rusher Jalon Walker, to a torn ACL. Their NFC South rival, the Saints, lost a key defensive piece when tackle Bryan Bresee tore his ACL. There have been many other injuries, significant and minor. And there's still more than a month to go before the season starts.
Ricky Pearsall is one of many key players who have already suffered an injury in training camp. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
There's not much teams can do to avoid it. Practices will continue so teams can get ready for the season, and preseason games will be a big part of preparation too. Everyone will hold their breath hoping their team isn't affected next. But nothing will stop the injuries from coming before the season even starts.
#pearsall
And already, some clubs are probably wishing training camp and the preseason was over.
August is necessary for NFL teams but also can be costly. Some franchises have already taken on season-changing injuries. The 49ers have lost receiver Ricky Pearsall for the season with a recurring knee problem. The Panthers saw young pass rusher Nic Scourton suffer a torn ACL and rookie receiver Chris Brazzell II also suffer a season-ending knee injury. The Falcons lost last year's first-round draft pick, edge rusher Jalon Walker, to a torn ACL. Their NFC South rival, the Saints, lost a key defensive piece when tackle Bryan Bresee tore his ACL. There have been many other injuries, significant and minor. And there's still more than a month to go before the season starts.
Ricky Pearsall is one of many key players who have already suffered an injury in training camp. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
There's not much teams can do to avoid it. Practices will continue so teams can get ready for the season, and preseason games will be a big part of preparation too. Everyone will hold their breath hoping their team isn't affected next. But nothing will stop the injuries from coming before the season even starts.
#pearsall
1 month ago
The injury bug bit the Atlanta Falcons right in the rear end on Tuesday, with edge rusher Jalon Walker suffering a season-ending ACL tear at their latest training camp practice.
The blow is particularly brutal to the team's edge unit, which was already expecting a TBD suspension for James Pearce Jr. that could sideline him for a significant portion of the 2026 season.
According to ESPN, the Falcons were already looking for pass-rushing help before Walker's injury, so we can safely ******* ume that they're going to sign somebody. The only question is if they'll just sign a body to fill the roster spot, or if they'll actually spend to bring in a pass rusher who could make a difference.
Here are three free agents who could help Atlanta with Walker and Pearce out.
If the Falcons want to go the familiar face route, their best option will be to bring back Leonard Floyd, who spent the 2025 season in Atlanta. His pass rushing numbers weren't up to his usual standard (3.5 sacks, 11 QB hits), but keep in mind he was only on the field for 49% of the team's defensive snaps last year. With a larger role in the absence of Walker and Pearce, he could get back to posting the kind of numbers he did with the 49ers in 2024 - when he totaled 8.5 sacks and 16 quarterback hits.
#season #edge #rusher
The blow is particularly brutal to the team's edge unit, which was already expecting a TBD suspension for James Pearce Jr. that could sideline him for a significant portion of the 2026 season.
According to ESPN, the Falcons were already looking for pass-rushing help before Walker's injury, so we can safely ******* ume that they're going to sign somebody. The only question is if they'll just sign a body to fill the roster spot, or if they'll actually spend to bring in a pass rusher who could make a difference.
Here are three free agents who could help Atlanta with Walker and Pearce out.
If the Falcons want to go the familiar face route, their best option will be to bring back Leonard Floyd, who spent the 2025 season in Atlanta. His pass rushing numbers weren't up to his usual standard (3.5 sacks, 11 QB hits), but keep in mind he was only on the field for 49% of the team's defensive snaps last year. With a larger role in the absence of Walker and Pearce, he could get back to posting the kind of numbers he did with the 49ers in 2024 - when he totaled 8.5 sacks and 16 quarterback hits.
#season #edge #rusher
1 month ago
The Atlanta Falcons' sixth training camp practice generated a wide range of emotions from the fans. The day began with the team signing Bijan Robinson to a three-year, $75 million extension, and ended with an unfortunate injury to Jalon Walker.
While Walker might be out for the season with what NFL insiders are hinting is a torn ACL, Robinson's extension is still a big win for this Falcons front office
The former Texas Longhorns star has established himself as one of the NFL's best, if not the No. 1 running back in the game, and his new deal pays him as such. Robinson's first three seasons have been as good as anyone could have hoped, and now he's locked in for three additional years.
For The Win writer Cory Woodroof gave the Falcons an "A" grade for Robinson's extension, saying they didn't have much of a choice but to re-sign the 24-year-old.
"The Falcons didn't really have a choice but to extend Robinson for what he was worth," wrote Woodroof. "With Robinson, London, Pitts and guard Matthew Bergeron all agreeing to new deals over the summer, the Falcons can rest on some vital consistency and good play at multiple positions on the offense. That matters with quarterback uncertainty."
#robinson #year #choice
While Walker might be out for the season with what NFL insiders are hinting is a torn ACL, Robinson's extension is still a big win for this Falcons front office
The former Texas Longhorns star has established himself as one of the NFL's best, if not the No. 1 running back in the game, and his new deal pays him as such. Robinson's first three seasons have been as good as anyone could have hoped, and now he's locked in for three additional years.
For The Win writer Cory Woodroof gave the Falcons an "A" grade for Robinson's extension, saying they didn't have much of a choice but to re-sign the 24-year-old.
"The Falcons didn't really have a choice but to extend Robinson for what he was worth," wrote Woodroof. "With Robinson, London, Pitts and guard Matthew Bergeron all agreeing to new deals over the summer, the Falcons can rest on some vital consistency and good play at multiple positions on the offense. That matters with quarterback uncertainty."
#robinson #year #choice
1 month ago
What started off as a milestone day for the Atlanta Falcons ended on a sour note with a key player injured during training camp on Tuesday.
Jalon Walker, the second-year defensive edge out of the University of Georgia, went down with a leg injury. He had to be carted off the field.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
The fear is that he has a torn ACL and will miss the entire season. Further testing will be done to confirm the injury.
Walker was the No. 15 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He had a fantastic rookie season, finishing the year with 5.5 sacks.
#season #atlanta
Jalon Walker, the second-year defensive edge out of the University of Georgia, went down with a leg injury. He had to be carted off the field.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
The fear is that he has a torn ACL and will miss the entire season. Further testing will be done to confirm the injury.
Walker was the No. 15 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He had a fantastic rookie season, finishing the year with 5.5 sacks.
#season #atlanta
1 month ago
The Buffalo Bills have needed to add dynamic athletes to their defense for some time. Especially in the defensive secondary, a reliance on drafting corners whose best fit was to play zone coverage led to repeated issues against elite teams, and those issues often cropped up at the most inopportune times — like during the playoffs.
While the team began to add different types of athletes over the final two years of former head coach Sean McDermott's tenure, those players were still playing in his zone-heavy system. Now, a new defensive coordinator in Jim Leonhard has the reins. Will his defense be an attacking, aggressive scheme as advertised? Does that mean more man coverage, more blitzing, or more of the same with a few tweaks here and there?
In today's installment of our "91 players in 91 days" series, we discuss a rookie who has a chance to become a key piece in Leonhard's new-look Buffalo defense.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Name: Jalon Kilgore
Number: 29
#buffalo #athletes #defensive #players
While the team began to add different types of athletes over the final two years of former head coach Sean McDermott's tenure, those players were still playing in his zone-heavy system. Now, a new defensive coordinator in Jim Leonhard has the reins. Will his defense be an attacking, aggressive scheme as advertised? Does that mean more man coverage, more blitzing, or more of the same with a few tweaks here and there?
In today's installment of our "91 players in 91 days" series, we discuss a rookie who has a chance to become a key piece in Leonhard's new-look Buffalo defense.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Name: Jalon Kilgore
Number: 29
#buffalo #athletes #defensive #players
1 month ago
The Atlanta Falcons did not have a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they added two players in Round 1 of last year's draft. Edge rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. both impressed as rookies (on the field), however, the team still missed the playoffs last season.
The Falcons' blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Rams to acquire Pearce in 2025 left general manager Ian Cunningham a bit shorthanded in his first draft taking over for Terry Fontenot. The team's philosophy on draft capital has shifted under Cunningham, but Fontenot definitely hit on a few of his first-round picks.
The Falcons drafted Kyle Pitts, Drake London and Bijan Robinson in consecutive years. While the jury is still out on Michael Penix Jr., most of Fontenot's Round 1 picks were solid.
CBS Sports' Mike Renner ranked all 191 first-round draft picks since 2020. The Falcons have had seven first-round selections over that span, so let's see where they were ranked.
22: CB A.J. Terrell
#falcons #picks #pearce
The Falcons' blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Rams to acquire Pearce in 2025 left general manager Ian Cunningham a bit shorthanded in his first draft taking over for Terry Fontenot. The team's philosophy on draft capital has shifted under Cunningham, but Fontenot definitely hit on a few of his first-round picks.
The Falcons drafted Kyle Pitts, Drake London and Bijan Robinson in consecutive years. While the jury is still out on Michael Penix Jr., most of Fontenot's Round 1 picks were solid.
CBS Sports' Mike Renner ranked all 191 first-round draft picks since 2020. The Falcons have had seven first-round selections over that span, so let's see where they were ranked.
22: CB A.J. Terrell
#falcons #picks #pearce
2 months ago
There are several former Georgia Bulldogs who are developing into stars in the NFL, and when Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox highlighted a player from each team he deemed as their "most promising building block", three Bulldogs made his list.
Outside linebacker Jalon Walker from the Atlanta Falcons along with Detroit Lions offensive lineman Tate Ratledge. Drafted No. 15 in the 2025 NFL draft, Walker enjoyed a solid season with the Falcons. He totaled 36 tackles, 5 1/2 sacks, nine quarterback hits, and 29 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus (premium subscription needed).
Overall, he had a solid 71.6 PFF grade, with his best attribute grade as an 81.3 PFF grade in run defense. His best game pressure-wise was against the New England Patriots in Week 9, a game where he earned four pressures and two sacks.
With linebacker Kaden Elliss departing for the New Orleans Saints, Walker could be expanded into a bigger role. "We're going to ask him to do a lot," defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich said, per Daniel Flick of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "He is one of those guys that's going to be in a similar role that Kaden had last year."
Before Walker became a promising young talent with the Atlanta Falcons, he was a staple of Georgia's ferocious front seven in the early 2020s. The former four-star linebacker recruit from Salisbury, North Carolina, committed to Georgia in 2021. In his freshman season, he helped Georgia win a national championship as a reserve linebacker.
Outside linebacker Jalon Walker from the Atlanta Falcons along with Detroit Lions offensive lineman Tate Ratledge. Drafted No. 15 in the 2025 NFL draft, Walker enjoyed a solid season with the Falcons. He totaled 36 tackles, 5 1/2 sacks, nine quarterback hits, and 29 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus (premium subscription needed).
Overall, he had a solid 71.6 PFF grade, with his best attribute grade as an 81.3 PFF grade in run defense. His best game pressure-wise was against the New England Patriots in Week 9, a game where he earned four pressures and two sacks.
With linebacker Kaden Elliss departing for the New Orleans Saints, Walker could be expanded into a bigger role. "We're going to ask him to do a lot," defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich said, per Daniel Flick of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "He is one of those guys that's going to be in a similar role that Kaden had last year."
Before Walker became a promising young talent with the Atlanta Falcons, he was a staple of Georgia's ferocious front seven in the early 2020s. The former four-star linebacker recruit from Salisbury, North Carolina, committed to Georgia in 2021. In his freshman season, he helped Georgia win a national championship as a reserve linebacker.
2 months ago
2025 was a big year of improvement for the Atlanta Falcons' defense. Their secondary was already in good shape and continued to play tight coverage, and they finally got some great pass rushing production, finishing the year second to Denver in sacks.
The Falcons still struggled against the run, though, which brought down their ceiling. The end result was a modest improvement in their scoring defense, going being ranked from 23rd in the league to 19th.
How can they do better this year? Here's Gary Davenport at Bleacher Report breaking down the best-case scenario for defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich and his unit this coming season.
"The Falcons showed real improvement defensively last year, and the best-case scenario in 2026 is for that improvement to continue. They need a pass rush that again ranks at or near the top of the league in sacks and a seamless replacement of the departed Kaden Elliss with Divine Deablo at linebacker. They also need a third cornerback to step up alongside A.J. Terrell and Mike Hughes. If they get those things, the Falcons could have the NFC South's best defense."
The pass rush question is still to be determined, and will be largely based on what happens with James Pearce Jr. and how long the NFL decides to suspend him. Improvement from Jalon Walker would certainly help, as would continued efforts from Brandon Dorlus inside. They'll need others to step up as well, though.
The Falcons still struggled against the run, though, which brought down their ceiling. The end result was a modest improvement in their scoring defense, going being ranked from 23rd in the league to 19th.
How can they do better this year? Here's Gary Davenport at Bleacher Report breaking down the best-case scenario for defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich and his unit this coming season.
"The Falcons showed real improvement defensively last year, and the best-case scenario in 2026 is for that improvement to continue. They need a pass rush that again ranks at or near the top of the league in sacks and a seamless replacement of the departed Kaden Elliss with Divine Deablo at linebacker. They also need a third cornerback to step up alongside A.J. Terrell and Mike Hughes. If they get those things, the Falcons could have the NFC South's best defense."
The pass rush question is still to be determined, and will be largely based on what happens with James Pearce Jr. and how long the NFL decides to suspend him. Improvement from Jalon Walker would certainly help, as would continued efforts from Brandon Dorlus inside. They'll need others to step up as well, though.
5 months ago
Falcons 1 of 12 NFL teams to host supersized WR prospect for workout
In a departure from their usual way of doing business, the Atlanta Falcons front office seems to be thinking locally when it comes to NFL draft prospects. In last year's draft they took Georgia Bulldogs star edge rusher Jalon Walker in Round 1, and this year they've been sniffing around several prospects from inside the state. A new NFL.com mock has them taking Georgia defensive tackle Christen Miller at No. 19 overall, for one example.
The local flavor includes supersized Georgia State wide receiver prospect Ted Hurst, w
In a departure from their usual way of doing business, the Atlanta Falcons front office seems to be thinking locally when it comes to NFL draft prospects. In last year's draft they took Georgia Bulldogs star edge rusher Jalon Walker in Round 1, and this year they've been sniffing around several prospects from inside the state. A new NFL.com mock has them taking Georgia defensive tackle Christen Miller at No. 19 overall, for one example.
The local flavor includes supersized Georgia State wide receiver prospect Ted Hurst, w
