The Falcons wrapped up their preseason with a 31-13 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Friday night, but the score didn’t tell the full story. Atlanta actually outgained Dallas through the air and on the ground, yet a mix of sloppy execution, missed opportunities, and roster-bubble struggles defined the evening.
With final cuts looming, this was the last chance for several players to make their case for one of the 69 total roster and practice squad spots. Some stepped up. Others… didn’t.
Let’s dive into the highlights and lowlights from Friday’s action:
Nick Nash stakes his claim
The undrafted rookie wideout had his best outing yet, catching six of nine targets for 87 yards and flashing the run-after-catch ability that made him dangerous at San Jose State. He looks like a strong candidate for the practice squad.
Easton Stick steadies the ship
Yes, there was an interception. But overall, Stick looked poised despite inconsistent protection up front. Given the Falcons’ likely plans to draft a backup next spring and potentially move on from Kirk Cousins, Stick may have done enough to secure an emergency QB3 role for now.
LaCale London’s hustle play
One of the wildest moments of the night came from London, who was still sprinting onto the field when the ball was snapped. Instead of panicking, he used his momentum to knife into the backfield and blow up the run for a TFL. With Atlanta still searching for answers against the run, London could be a useful rotational piece behind David Onyemata.
Zach Harrison keeps flashing
The second-year defensive lineman continues to show steady growth, finishing with four tackles (two solo) and a TFL. On a defensive front full of unknowns, Harrison remains one of the brighter spots.
Feleipe Freaks, rejoice
Feleipe Franks reminded everyone why fans still root for him, leaping into the end zone for Atlanta’s lone touchdown of the night. His athleticism remains intriguing, and Friday’s performance may have bought him another look on the practice squad.
Offensive line depth is a problem
With Kaleb McGary and Storm Norton sidelined, the Falcons’ OL depth continues to be one of the biggest concerns entering the season. Against Dallas, the group surrendered two sacks and four QB hits on 35 dropbacks (17.1%). Jack Nelson and Brandon Parker, both fighting for roster spots, struggled heavily in pass protection.
Backup nickel battle unresolved
The fight for the backup slot corner role remains wide open — and not in a good way. Both Mike Ford and Dee Alford had rough nights in coverage, failing to solidify their spots.
JD Bertrand struggles again
It’s hard to see a path to the roster for Bertrand after Friday’s showing. He was washed out at the goal line, late to his assignments, and generally struggled to make an impact. Unless something changes, he looks like a likely cut candidate.
Red-zone woes continue
Execution has been inconsistent all preseason, but three empty trips inside the 20 won’t sit well with the coaching staff. Combine that with two ugly interceptions — one from each quarterback — and it capped off a frustrating night for the offense.
If the Falcons wanted clarity heading into final cuts, this game didn’t provide it. A handful of young players made their case, but depth concerns — particularly along the offensive line and in the secondary — remain glaring. With Week 1 fast approaching, Atlanta has decisions to make, and they aren’t necessarily fun ones.
0 Comments