While the Atlanta Falcons got hit early with injuries in training camp, several players are making their way back to the field and could debut in the next preseason game. The Falcons are trying to avoid the fate of the last few seasons where injuries simply knocked them out of contention. This year is hopefully going to change that trend as players like Desmond Trufant make his way back to the field.
Trufant has been dealing with a shoulder injury that has kept him inactive over the past two weeks. The top cornerback is expected to lead the Atlanta secondary once again this season and his presence is desperately needed. However, with the absence of Trufant, the Falcons got a look at several other players at the position as depth could be very deep this year for the franchise. With the star out, Robert Alford and Jalen Collins continue to try and make a name for themselves.
Collins has been hit or miss in the preseason. While NFL.com predicted the LSU cornerback to be a total steal in the draft, the preseason has shown he still needs some work after missing OTAs with an injury. Collins might not be ready to start just yet which is ok for the Falcons considering Alford is on the rise. After being drafted the same year as Trufant, Alford had yet to take the leap like his teammate immediately did, but this year could be a breakout season for the cornerback.
There are a lot of others guys. But honestly, I feel like any matchup, I'm ready for," Alford said, via ESPN.com. "I look at it like I'm going to win, regardless." "To me, I feel like I can cover anybody. I never have any doubt that I can cover anybody."
Vic Beasley is a player making the NFL jump with ease. The rookie has been a starter in both preseason games and showing exactly why the Falcons drafted him in the first round over other options. The former Clemson star has received nothing but high praise as he leads what could be a lethal pass rush for the team. Beasley is pairing with Adrian Clayborn who signed in free agency. The tandem gave Ryan Fitzpatrick a headache in the second preseason game. The Falcons need Beasley to be a star immediately and so far he is showing the potential.
Head coach Dan Quinn has been preaching aggressiveness with the team and so far through the first two preseason games his message is being heard. While the Falcons have dealt with defensive inconsistencies in the past, this year could be different.
