Raheem Morris Head Coach | Atlanta Falcons Website
Raheem Morris Head Coach | Atlanta Falcons Website
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The 2024 regular season is set to begin, and the Atlanta Falcons have released their first depth chart for the home opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Several additions to the starting lineup are notable. Justin Simmons appears alongside Jessie Bates III as a starting safety for the first time since his acquisition by the Falcons. Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed that Bates was fully active in practice this week. Simmons, who was without a team for much of the offseason, has been gradually integrated into team activities and will now assume a full workload.
On defense, Troy Andersen is set to start at inside linebacker alongside Kaden Elliss. The Falcons have previously stated that having three starting-caliber inside linebackers—Andersen, Elliss, and Nate Landman—is a "good problem to have." Both Elliss (groin) and Landman (quad) are returning from injuries sustained during preseason practices. Morris noted that "they're good to go." The team's first injury report will be released after practice on Wednesday.
In special teams news, Avery Williams returns to full return duties on punt and kickoff following a year away due to a knee injury. Mike Hughes will serve as his backup.
The complete Week 1 depth chart can be viewed below:
OFFENSE
DEFENSE
SPECIAL TEAMS