With a new coaching staff comes roster changes as the Atlanta Falcons have spent most of the offseason adjusting the player personnel to better fit Dan Quinn's intended schemes. The running back position has been upgraded. The defensive line is now full of depth. While there are still lingering questions regarding the tight end position, the Falcons might not be completely done shifting players around.
According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, several players have a lot to prove in the upcoming minicamps and training camp or they might risk getting traded or released before the season begins. The biggest changes could fall on the offensive line. Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan intends to put in a zone blocking scheme for the line which could push some players out of the mix if they fail to catch on. Peter Konz and Sam Baker both spent most of last season injured and have to step up if they intend to be used quickly.
According to Bleacher Report, there is a real chance Baker does not see training camp. The lineman is coming off two bad injuries and cutting him frees up a lot of money. The future of Baker depends on Lamar Holmes who reported to minicamp slimmed down. The Falcons may aim to release Baker before the June 2 deadline and pocket the money. The same can be said for Kroy Biermann who has a contract very easy to get rid of. The Falcons appear to like Biermann despite his inconsistencies, but if younger players step up he could easily be out.
The biggest question the Falcons might have entering camp is the tight end position. Since the departure of Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta has yet to have a dominant tight end. They drafted Levine Toilolo who is a nice red zone target, but cannot seem to remain consistent. Jacob Tamme is not exactly quick, but might have the better hands. With upgrades to the running back spot with Tevin Coleman and new wide receiver Justin Hardy, the lack of talent at the tight end spot might not turn out to be as bad as it looks on paper.
According to TheFalcoholic.com, the Falcons can use Hardy across the middle while Coleman has the hands to be a dual-threat back. Pairing them with Roddy White and Julio Jones could still be productive for Matt Ryan.
