ATLANTA — Falcons Fans Rejoice: Training Camp Returns to Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Players signed autographs, took pictures, and tossed hats into the stands after their seventh training camp practice on Friday night, marking the return of Atlanta Falcons football to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2024.
In this latest session, the Falcons completed seven practices in nine days, culminating in a padded practice in front of fans. This was the second and final open practice for fans during this training camp, running from 6-8 p.m. and featuring numerous 11-on-11 drills.
Cousins Sharp, Penix Battles Inconsistency
During the first non-walkthrough practice on July 26, quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr. were both impressive. Cousins has since maintained his strong performance, while Penix has faced some struggles. On Friday night, Cousins completed 17-of-20 passes, including a touchdown to Drake London. Despite being hit by a defensive lineman, Cousins quickly bounced back and continued.
Penix, on the other hand, completed 10-of-19 passes, starting slow but gradually improving. Both quarterbacks led successful drives in two-minute drills, setting up kicker Younghoe Koo for game-winning field goal attempts, both of which he made.
Several Rookies Impress
Fifth-round inside linebacker J.D. Bertrand had an active day, recording two would-be sacks and establishing himself as a promising player. Third-round outside linebacker Bralen Trice also stood out, seeing snaps with the first-team defense. Running back Jase McClellan showed potential with several quality runs, competing for a roster spot alongside Carlos Washington.
Extracurriculars
Kirk Cousins displayed leadership, expressing frustration over a pre-snap penalty during a successful passing streak. McClellan and Washington are vying for the fourth running back spot, with Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier, and Avery Williams currently leading the group.
On the defensive side, Demone Harris continued to see first-team snaps, and Clark Phillips III rotated more frequently as a first-team corner. Safety Richie Grant and DeMarcco Hellams also saw increased rotations.
Key Moments
Richie Grant delivered a big hit to dislodge the ball from Ray-Ray McCloud, causing some tension on the field. Younghoe Koo finished the practice making four of five kicks, including a 56-yarder.
With this practice, the Falcons have showcased their readiness for the upcoming season, exciting fans and setting the stage for a promising year ahead.