South Atlanta News

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Significant developments have occurred since the Atlanta Falcons' first preseason game against the Miami Dolphins.

A few key injuries and notable transactions have altered the 90-man roster. Fans will get their next look at the team when the Falcons face the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for noon ET at M&T Bank Stadium, with live local coverage on FOX 5.

Amid these changes, the Falcons editorial staff—Tori McElhaney, Will McFadden, Terrin Waack, and Amna Subhan—each selected a player to watch on Saturday.

McElhaney chose Anthony Johnson: "If you have listened to the Falcons Final Whistle podcast you know how much I have enjoyed watching the play of Johnson recently. He has a physical presence that is so different than some of the other defensive backs the Falcons have at their disposal." Johnson's performance in joint practices and his recent pass breakup against Drake London caught her attention. Despite this, she couldn't find a way to keep him on her 53-man roster projection but sees potential for him to secure a spot with strong preseason showings.

McFadden highlighted Jovaughn Gwyn: "When I watched Atlanta's first preseason game live, I had the impression that Gwyn struggled a fair bit. Upon a second viewing, though, my attitude shifted." Gwyn played 45 snaps at center and showed steadiness in pass protection despite some issues with quarterback-center exchanges and run blocking. McFadden believes Gwyn has an opportunity to secure a spot on the 53-man roster by outperforming guard Kyle Hinton.

Waack focused on Micah Abernathy: "The safety played 41% of the Falcons' defensive snaps against the Miami Dolphins last Friday. It wouldn't be surprising to see him take even more in Baltimore." With DeMarcco Hellams out indefinitely due to an ankle injury, Abernathy has an opportunity to prove himself as a dependable backup. His interception off starting quarterback Kirk Cousins in Thursday's practice adds to his momentum.

Subhan expressed interest in both Casey Washington and Chris Blair: "Each wide receiver has something to prove in this next preseason game." Washington led in targets and receptions during the first preseason game while Blair led in total yards thanks to a deep catch from Micheal Penix Jr. Subhan is particularly interested in seeing how Blair performs under pressure and is keen on observing Washington's fearless playstyle during live gameplay.