South Atlanta News

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons' defense is set to make its presence felt as training camp begins, marking the first opportunity for defensive players to engage in physical play this year.

The team has seen significant changes in its coaching staff while maintaining much of its player roster. The integration of new and returning personnel will be crucial for the team's success in the upcoming season.

A detailed preview of the defense by unit, along with an evaluation of Atlanta's special teams, follows.

COACHING STAFF

Notable new faces include Jimmy Lake (Defensive Coordinator), Justin Hood (Defensive Backs), Jay Rodgers (Defensive Line), Barrett Ruud (Inside Linebackers), and Jacquies Smith (Outside Linebackers). Jerry Gray returns as Assistant Head Coach/Defense.

Head coach Raheem Morris aims to implement his vision with a largely new coaching staff. Defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake will lead a base 3-4 scheme but will incorporate various fronts and coverages. Training camp will offer the first look at these strategies in action.

Lake's transition from collegiate to professional play-calling will be closely monitored. Supporting him are experienced coaches like Jay Rodgers, who has nearly 15 years of NFL experience, Barrett Ruud, Jacquies Smith, and Justin Hood.

The Falcons aim to continue their defensive improvement from last season when they moved up in rankings for points allowed per game and yards allowed per game. They also achieved their highest sack total since 2004 with 42 sacks.

DEFENSIVE LINE

New faces include Ruke Orhorhoro, Brandon Dorlus, Zion Logue, Prince Emili, and James Smith-Williams. Returning players are Grady Jarrett, David Onyemata, Kentavius Street, Ta'Quon Graham, Zach Harrison, LaCale London, Eddie Goldman, Demone Harris, and Tommy Togaia. Projected starters are Grady Jarrett, David Onyemata, and Zach Harrison.

Grady Jarrett is expected to participate in training camp following his recovery from a torn ACL. He and David Onyemata bring significant experience to the line. New draftees Ruke Orhorhoro, Brandon Dorlus, and Zion Logue add depth. Zach Harrison is anticipated to step into a starting role after learning from Calais Campbell last season.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS/EDGE RUSHERS

New additions are Bralen Trice and Bradlee Anae. Returning players include Lorenzo Carter, Arnold Ebiketie, and DeAngelo Malone. Projected starters are Lorenzo Carter and Arnold Ebiketie.

Atlanta retained much of its roster at this position while adding Bralen Trice in the draft and signing Bradlee Anae. Lorenzo Carter's role as a starter will be scrutinized during training camp alongside Arnold Ebiketie’s development.

INSIDE LINEBACKERS

JD Bertrand joins returning players Kaden Elliss, Troy Andersen, Nate Landman, Milo Eifler, and Donavan Mutin. Projected starters are Kaden Elliss, Troy Andersen/Nate Landman.

Kaden Elliss led the team in tackles for loss last season while Troy Andersen returns healthy after an injury-shortened season. Nate Landman provides strong competition for a starting spot after stepping up last year.

CORNERBACKS

New faces include Antonio Hamilton Sr., Kevin King, Anthony Johnson Jr., Jayden Price Jr., Trey Vaval Jr.. Returning players are A.J. Terrell Jr., Dee Alford Jr., Clark Phillips III Jr., Mike Hughes Jr., Natrone Brooks Jr.. Projected starters are A.J. Terrell Jr., Clark Phillips III/Mike Hughes Jr., Dee Alford (nickel).

A.J. Terrell remains a key player while Mike Hughes and Clark Phillips III compete for the second starting cornerback position—a major focus during training camp.

SAFETIES

Dane Cruikshank joins returning players Jessie Bates III Sr., DeMarcco Hellams Sr., Richie Grant Sr., Micah Abernathy Sr., Lukas Denis Sr., Tre Tarpley III Sr.. Projected starters are Jessie Bates III Sr., DeMarcco Hellams/Richie Grant Sr..

Jessie Bates III leads this group after an impressive first season with Atlanta. Richie Grant faces competition from DeMarcco Hellams for a starting spot following Hellams’ strong rookie performance.

SPECIAL TEAMS

New additions include Ray-Ray McCloud (KR), Rondale Moore (KR), Ryan Sanborn (P). Returning members are Marquice Williams (STC), Younghoe Koo (K), Bradley Pinion (P), Liam McCullough (LS), Avery Williams (KR). Projected starters are Younghoe Koo (K), Bradley Pinion (P), Liam McCullough (LS), Avery Williams (KR).

Special teams remain stable under coordinator Marquice Williams with key players like kicker Younghoe Koo returning for another season. Avery Williams competes with newcomers Ray-Ray McCloud and Rondale Moore for return duties amid recent rule changes affecting kickoffs.