South Atlanta News

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — In a significant move during the Falcons' preseason, the team traded a third-round draft pick to New England for edge rusher Matthew Judon and signed safety Justin Simmons. As the Falcons prepare for their final preseason game against Jacksonville, head coach Raheem Morris outlined plans to integrate both players into team activities gradually.

Morris assured that both Judon and Simmons would be ready for Week 1 of the 2024 season. Providing an update on their progress, Morris noted that they are on different schedules.

Judon is further along in his preparation since he was active with a team this preseason. "We've already got him beefed up into his rep counts," Morris said. "We got him beefed up into full individual (drills)." He described Judon as a "live wire" with high IQ and instincts that benefit the defensive unit.

For Simmons, who has been a free agent this offseason without access to team facilities or workout plans, the Falcons are taking more time to acclimate him to live reps. Although confident in his physical readiness due to individual workouts, the team is cautious not to push him too hard too fast. His recent reps have increased this week.

"With Justin, we're letting the rope out slowly with him and now we're starting to get him in some team play," Morris said. He praised Simmons' intelligence and professionalism in picking up plays and communicating effectively with teammates like Jessie Bates, Richie Grant, and Dee Alford.

When asked about Simmons' readiness for their Week 1 matchup against the Steelers, Morris expressed confidence in his contribution. "How much? That will be determined over the next couple weeks," he explained but affirmed that Simmons would be a major contributor throughout the season.

Despite being on different work-back schedules, expectations for Judon and Simmons remain high. Morris emphasized how well both players have integrated into the team's culture: "The two guys' personalities are really ringing out," he said. "The character behind both of them -- in their own different way -- are really starting to mesh well with our football team."