Issuu

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WELCOME BACK TO THE BRANCH DOLPHINS

AUG 16 8:00 EDT

TEXANS

AUG 23 7:00 EDT

TITANS

AUG 28 6:00 EDT

JAGUARS

Georgia Dome

NRG Stadium

Georgia Dome

EverBank Field

JUL 25 3:30-5:50PM JUL 26 3:30-5:50PM JUL 27 3:30-6:05PM JUL 28 3:30-6:05PM JUL 29 3:30-6:05PM JUL 31 3:30-6:05PM AUG 1

KIA Motors “Friday Night Lights” at Archer High School in Lawrenceville, GA, 6:45-9:10 p.m.

TUE MON SAT WED MON SUN SAT

AUG 8 7:00 EDT

PRACTICE SCHEDULE FRI THU TUE MON SUN SAT FRI

PRESEASON SCHEDULE

AUG 2 3:30-5:30PM AUG 3 3:30-6:05PM AUG 4 AUG 6 3:30-6:05PM AUG 9 4:30-5:45PM AUG 11 3:30-5:50PM AUG 12 10:00AM-12:35PM 3:00-5:30pm (Combined practice with Tennessee Titans)

The Falcons will be featured on the ninth edition of HBO’s popular show “Hard Knocks”. The show will air on four straight Tuesdays beginning Aug. 5 at 10 p.m. All shows will start at 10 p.m. and will be followed the next night by a replay at 11.

Schedule magnets at Dolphins preseason game courtesy of:

WHERE TO GO INDOOR PRACTICE FACILITY

PRACTICE FIELD

VIEWING AREA

HOW TO GET TO TRAINING CAMP:

PRACTICE FIELD PRACTICE FIELD

From the south: Take I-85 north. Exit to the left on I-985 toward Gainesville. Take exit 12 (Spout Springs Road). Turn left off the exit ramp onto Spout Springs Road. Go under I-985, travel 1/4 mile and turn right on Thurmond Tanner Road. Proceed on Thurmond Tanner Road for about one mile to the stoplight, then turn right on Atlanta Highway (Ga. 13). Go about a mile on Atlanta Highway (which becomes Falcon Parkway) past the Wrigley plant on the left and back over I-985. The Falcons complex will be on the left (4400 Falcon Parkway). From the north: Take I-985 south to exit 12 (Spout Springs Road). Turn right off the exit ramp onto Spout Springs Road. From here, use the same directions as above.

FALCONS INFORMATION TENT SPONSOR ACTIVATION CONCESSIONS

FALCONS OFFICES SPONSOR CHECK-IN

OFFICIAL FALCONS GEAR

GUEST CHECK-IN

Training camp general parking is available at the Hog Mountain Sports Complex and C.W. Davis Middle School across the street from the Falcons complex. Fans with disability parking permits may park at the Falcons training complex. Permits must be properly displayed for law enforcement officials to grant entry. A designated seating area will also be provided for fans with disabilities.

LOOKING FOR AUTOGRAPHS?

FAN ENTRY

KIDS ZONE SHUTTLE DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP AVAILABLE AT HOG MOUNTAIN SPORTS COMPLEX

WHERE TO PARK:

RESTROOMS

AY W K R S PA FALCON

Player autographs will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for 15 minutes following practice. Autographs can be obtained on the viewing hill. Please call the hotline number below if you have any questions.

FALCONS HOTLINE | 770.965.2752 WWW.ATL A NTA FA L C O NS.C O M | 3

78414 2014 Suntrust Training Camp Guide ad | Trim: 10.125” x 9.321”

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What’s more impressive to me than his arm is his attitude. The way he shakes off a bad play and spreads praise on the good ones. Is that arm good enough to pay his way through college? Maybe, maybe not. But thanks to SunTrust, I’m learning new ways to save for his future and mine. So we’ll be good either way. Stop in, call 800.SUNTRUST or visit suntrust.com

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78414_ST_Football_Print_TrainingCampGuide.indd 1

6/20/14 9:34 AM

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TRAINING CAMP FAQs XFINITY® is Your Home for the Most Live Sports and we’re proud to bring you the Atlanta Falcons Training Camp, presented by XFINITY, each year at the Falcons training facility in Flowery Branch.

THE 411 ON THE BRANCH

KIA Motors Friday Night Lights will be held for the seventh time on Aug. 1 as the Falcons are once again brought to the fans. This year’s live scrimmage will take place at Archer High School in Lawrenceville at 6:45 p.m. A grassroots event, KIA Motors Friday Night Lights includes a fan fest with interactive inflatable games, sponsor activation, a post-event autograph session and a spectacular fireworks show. Several players will be mic’ed up during the scrimmage (including QB Matt Ryan), which will provide fans with an “under the helmet” experience.

WHAT YOU SHOULD BRING TO CAMP

FAN DISCLOSURE

For your comfort, please feel free to bring the following items to training camp: hats, jackets, rain gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, blankets, umbrellas, lawn chairs and strollers. Prohibited items include: weapons of any kind, alcoholic beverages, large backpacks, bags and coolers, anything deemed inappropriate by security. Pets, other than service animals, are not allowed.

Xfinity Atlanta Falcons Training Camp is a free and open to the public event. By way of attendance, the attendee grants the NFL, the Atlanta Falcons and their designees the irrevocable permission to use his or her voice or likeness in any media now or hereafter existing in connection with all or any part of the football game or related events, for any purpose whatsoever, including the commercial purposes of the NFL, the Atlanta Falcons, their sponsors, licensees, advertisers or broadcasters.

CAMERAS Still cameras with lenses under 12” and without flash attachments are permitted for use during all training camp workouts at Flowery Branch. No flash photography of any type will be permitted at any time. No audio or video recording devices are allowed, including camcorders or cellular phones with video capabilities. Videotaping during practice is strictly prohibited.

INFORMATION BOOTH Any questions about training camp may be directed to Falcons associates at the Information Tent adjacent to the training camp fan field main entrance.

WEATHER INFORMATION Check the Falcons website at www.atlantafalcons.com for updates or call the Atlanta Falcons Training Camp Hotline at 770965-2752. Practice times are subject to change without notice.

FALCONS MERCHANDISE The Official Falcons Gear Tent is located near the main fan field entrance to camp. The shop will be open before, during and after practice and feature exclusive training camp merchandise.

BEATING THE HEAT In an effort to ensure comfort for all fans who attend a Falcons practice during training camp, the club has a 10-foot-by-10-foot area at the top of the spectator hill for fans to get out of the sun and cool off. Free water will be available at all Gatorade stations.

CONCESSIONS Food and beverage items will be available for purchase at each practice session. The main concessions are located at the entrance to the field.

SMOKING For the comfort and health of all fans, the Falcons training complex is a smoke-free environment. There is no smoking allowed anywhere on the grounds or inside the buildings.

SAFETY AND SECURITY For your safety, the Atlanta Falcons, along with the Flowery Branch Police Department and other local law enforcement officials will be present. We will also conduct bag inspections at the gate prior to entry. In serious cases of rowdy behavior or profane/abusive language, security will first issue a warning. If the disruptive behavior continues, the fan will be subject to removal or arrest. Multiple violations may result in the individual being banned from the Falcons complex.

FIRST AID Authorized medical personnel from the Falcons and Hall County will be available one hour prior to each practice through 30 minutes following each session.

KIDS ACTIVITIES During the first weekend of Training Camp, we will have a Youth Weekend, which will feature numerous games and inflatables. The Kids Zone area for Youth Weekend will open one hour prior to the practice session. Youth ages 17-and-under have the chance to get autographs from the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders and try on authentic Falcons equipment at the “Look Like a Pro” station. At the Helmet and Jersey Frenzy station, kids are able to enter to win autographed Atlanta Falcons mini helmets and jerseys.

DAILY UPDATES For updates on daily activities, visit www.atlantafalcons.com, check with an associate in the Official Falcons Gear Tent, or call the Training Camp hotline at 770-965-2752.

SPECIAL GUESTS AND VIPS Staff/Player families, special guests and VIP check-in is located near the main building entrance of the Atlanta Falcons training complex. Sponsor guests will checkin at the tent located

near the main gate entry.

The Falcons Training Camp Guide was produced and published by Score Publishing, a division of Score Atlanta. The publisher is I.J. Rosenberg, Managing Editor is Stephen Black, Assistant Editor is Craig Sager II, Associate Editor is Lauren Goldstein and Creative Art Director is DJ Galbiati Blalock. The photos in the Guide were taken by Falcons team photographer Jimmy Cribb unless otherwise noted. Score is a full-service marketing company and can be reached at 404-256-1572 and SCOREATL.COM.

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northside.com

201 4 AT L A N TA FA L C O N S T R A I N I N G C A M P G UIDE ARTHUR BLANK

FALCONS OWNER DISCUSSES TRIP TO LONDON, 2014 EXPECTATIONS The Falcons were very active during the offseason in terms of retooling their roster. With the regular season now just weeks away, what are your expectations for the 2014 Falcons? AB: “There is a prevailing thought in the NFL, and probably in most professional sports, that you are either improving and getting better or you are standing pat and getting worse. Standing pat and hoping for a different outcome is not in my DNA, and it’s certainly not in Smitty’s or Thomas’. At the conclusion of what was a very disappointing 2013 season, we took a long, hard look at every player and coach on our roster and came away thinking that we

needed to move on from some players and coaches. We researched the key replacements and think we’ve added people who will help us win games. I like all three of our coordinators; I think the trio is as talented as any three coordinators in professional football. Successful NFL teams all have great coaching staffs, and I think our coaching staff is full of talented communicators and teachers. We entered the offseason with the intention of getting bigger and stronger on both sides of the ball, and I think Thomas and his staff did an outstanding job of restocking our roster both in free agency and in the draft. I honestly feel like we are going to be a better football team in 2014 than we were in 2013 based on the steps we took this offsea-

RICH MCKAY

FALCONS PRESIDENT COMMENTS ON COMPETITION COMMITTEE, NEW STADIUM It’s been a year since we checked in with you on a number of fronts including the state-of-the-art new stadium that’s now under construction in downtown Atlanta. What’s that process has been like? RM: “I don’t think people understand how

thur set the vision from the beginning of this project that we were going to ‘re-imagine the fan experience’ and the project is on track to do the same. I think our fans and general public are going to be impressed when the new building is complete in 2017.”

son to improve. As Coach [Mike] Smith has said more than once, it’s only five or six plays that usually decide who wins and who loses every Sunday. I like where we are. We have a lot of games yet to play like every other team in the NFL. My desire is that we play well, stay healthy and become a huge part of the lateseason national discussion that’s reserved for the NFL’s elite teams in December, January and into early February.”

Does this team have what it takes to rebound and return to the playoffs in 2014? AB: “I absolutely believe it does. Winning in the NFL is hard, but I believe we have put ourselves in position to rebound from 2013 and have a very successful season. We have a very solid nucleus of veteran and young players, we’ve drafted well and we have a talented coaching staff. I feel very good about our team entering the 2014 season.”

ing nicely. Although the building process has only just begun, we are confident that the city of Atlanta will soon be home to one of the finest and most spectacular sports and entertainment venues in the world. We are constructing a building that will soon become a destination site for sports fans and other guests, as well as a place Falcons fans will be proud to call home for years to come.”

The Falcons will be featured in the second of three regular-season games that will be played in London’s Wembley Stadium in 2014. What are your thoughts on the NFL’s timetable on placing a team permanently in the UK?

AB: “The project is on schedule and progress-

AB: “We are thrilled to be playing in London. It’s an honor to be one of the six teams selected this year by the NFL to participate in an international game, and we look forward to going over to the UK as NFL ambassadors in late October. We have drawn a rather tough opponent in the Detroit Lions, but we are looking forward to the challenge. As far as the NFL eventually placing a team in London, I can tell you that this topic has been discussed extensively by the NFL’s 32-club membership.”

tiation you have to go into it knowing that it’s

legs; the new proposal will not allow players

going to be a long, arduous, and sometimes,

to hit opponents on the side of the legs. We

unpleasant process. But with both the Tampa

passed a rule that will allow the referee to con-

stadium and our new stadium here in Atlanta,

sult with the command center in New York to

we’ve had the opportunity to work with some

help with reviewing plays in instant replay.”

Earlier this offseason, you broke ground on your new stadium. Can you give us an update as to how that project is progressing?

very good people who want to do what’s best for the city, the state and the teams. When you have that kind of support and cooperation, you have a chance to get something done. That is what has taken place here in Atlanta under Arthur’s leadership, and what took place in Tampa in 1998 when we built Raymond James Stadium under the Glazer’s leadership.”

As the chairman of the NFL’s powerful Competition Committee, what can fans expect this season from a rules perspective?

How excited are you about the team this season? RM: “This is a quarterback-driven league and you are only as good as your quarterback. The game has changed dramatically from that perspective over the years, and we feel our quarterback is an elite player. We feel like we always have a chance with Matt Ryan under center. I think Thomas and Mike did a very good job of retooling the roster, and I like what we have

facility. It’s certainly going to be a sports and

When this process is complete in early 2017, you will be the only NFL team president who has successfully constructed two modernday NFL stadiums. Any thoughts on the magnitude of that accomplishment?

years past. We modified an existing rule which

we drafted. Jake Matthews should be a good

entertainment destination for football fans,

RM: “I’ve been fortunate to have been in a po-

protects players from getting the sides of their

player for us for a long time, and I’m anxious

soccer fans and other guests, and our plan is

sition to work on two stadiums that were very

legs rolled on. The existing rule already says a

to see DeVonta Freeman, Prince Shembo and

to make it the best stadium in the NFL. Ar-

different. From the outset of any stadium nego-

blocker can’t hit an opponent in the back of the

Ra’Shede Hageman once they put the pads on.”

much planning and detail goes into a project of this magnitude. We are talking about a building that, when it’s all said and done, will be a fantastic sports and entertainment

done to get bigger and stouter on both sides of

RM: “What came out of the recent meetings

the ball. The moves we made along the offen-

were six rules changes for 2014. None were

sive and defensive lines are going to help us. I

changes that will be as noticeable to fans as in

am also excited about some of the young guys

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NEW ATLANTA STADIUM

FALCONS BREAK GROUND ON WORLD-CLASS STADIUM WITH EPIC CELEBRATION BY STEPHEN BLACK | SBLACK@SCOREATL.COM

he new Atlanta stadium will not just be another football facility. The stadium will serve as home to the Falcons as well as Atlanta’s newly-awarded Major League Soccer franchise. The $1.2 billion facility will seat 71,000 fans and will have the capacity to host marquee events like the Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup and NCAA Final Four. It is scheduled to open in 2017. “We set our standards very high,” said Falcons President & CEO Rich McKay. “We’re not trying to build the next stadium, we’re trying to build an iconic stadium that makes a statement for Atlanta, not for the next 5, 10 or 15 years, but for a long, long time. There are plenty of elements to the stadium that are really cool, but in looking at the entire package, we’re trying to build something that’s truly world class.” A bevy of national sports personalities and local celebrities gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new stadium on May 19. Preliminary construction work was taking place on the future stadium grounds, so the event took place just across the street from the new stadium site. The ceremony was a sight to behold. The audience was given 3D glasses to wear during a video presentation featuring a Falcon flying through Atlanta and ending up at midfield of the new stadium. Pyrotechnics surrounded the screen throughout the presentation. The speakers’ podium was shaped like a large Falcons logo, which sank into the stage before the video. It made for a groundbreaking like no other.

“I’ve been to about three of four of them, but none quite like this,” said McKay. “They did a really nice job. The ‘other’ Roddy White (Falcons Vice President of Events) did a real nice job.” Following the video and fireworks, Falcons Owner & Chairman Arthur Blank, McKay, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, MLS Commissioner Don Garber and several other key members of the stadium project donned shiny silver work helmets, grabbed brand-new shovels and began the ceremonial digging.

FAMILY AFFAIR

Blank and McKay were joined by all of the Falcons top brass for the ceremony. Similar to his demeanor at the MLS Atlanta announcement in April, Blank seemed giddy that the day had finally arrived. The dapper owner made it clear that the stadium was being built not just

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for the Falcons, but to host many other sports and entertainment events as well. “Atlanta needs a stadium for a variety of reasons,” said Blank. “One is to secure the National Football League franchise here for the next 35-40 years. We also now have a Major League Soccer franchise. We want to create a competitive environment in Atlanta so that we can compete (to host) the SEC Championship game, the Chick-fil-A (Peach) Bowl, NCAA Final Fours, and, hopefully, compete for the FIFA World Cup when it’s back in the United States, as a host city, and a Super Bowl as well.” The Super Bowl theme was obvious throughout the evening as Goodell, Reed and Blank each mentioned it in their speeches. Reed and Blank both made references to getting the NFL’s crowning jewel of a game back to Atlanta for the third time. “I’d like to extend an open invitation for (Goodell) to come back any time he likes, especially if he wants to announce that we’re going to win the Super Bowl (host bid),” joked Reed. Blank tried to dispel the memory of Atlanta’s last Super Bowl (2000), which had problems due to icy conditions and poor weather around the city. “This weather is normal for Atlanta yearround,” he joked of the perfect 75-degree conditions in mid-May.

UNCLE ARTHUR

Another entertaining part of the evening came courtesy of a soccer support group called “Terminus Legion,” loyal fans of Atlanta’s MLS franchise. They yelled and clapped loudly for anything and everything seen or mentioned referring to MLS Atlanta. MLS Commissioner Don Garber recognized Terminus Legion during his speech and joked that he paid them to come and make noise. Blank was clearly the group’s favorite; they chanted “Uncle Arthur” as he took the stage. “He is Atlanta’s uncle,” said one of the Terminus Legion members of Blank. “We were really touched when, at the (MLS) announcement, he turned during his speech and said ‘We’re here for the fans,’ and that was not lost on us. We saw that and we want to thank him and let him know that we consider him family as well.”

NEW ATLANTA STADIUM TIMELINE

12/10/12

The Georgia World Congress Center Authority and Atlanta Falcons agree to a term sheet that provides the basic business framework for the next step of reaching a binding memorandum of understanding.

4/30/13 5/21/13

NFL owners approve a $200 million loan for construction of a new stadium in Atlanta.

6/18/13 Falcons announce team of general contractors, led by Atlanta-based Holder Construction Company.

9/22/13

Parishioners at Friendship Baptist Church sell their historic house of worship for $19.5 million.

9/30/13 Atlanta announces site choice for the new $1 billion stadium just south of the Georgia Dome.

2/14/14 Falcons release 17 design concepts.

2/18/14

Kansas City-based architecture firm, 360 Architecture, is formally approved as the lead design firm.

6/14/13 360 Architecture selects three Atlantabased firms to partner with for the design phase of the new stadium.

6/18/13 Falcons announce the completion of a conceptual design of the new Atlanta stadium.

9/26/13 Atlanta unveils new design concept and animations from the renderings of 360 Architecture.

10/29/13 Georgia World Congress Center Authority Board of Governors unanimously approves complete schematic drawings and a $1.2 billion preliminary budget.

Falcons hire Scott Jenkins as general manager of the new Atlanta stadium.

5/19/14

Ground is broken on the new stadium at a lavish ceremony near the current site.

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201 4 AT L A N TA FA L C O N S T R A I N I N G C A M P G UIDE and defensive side of the ball. Coach Smith and I were very vocal about that. We developed a plan to address it and we executed this offseason. It was a very busy offseason, but a very productive one at the same time. We like the pieces we have added and we are excited to see them on the field in the preseason.”

THOMAS DIMITROFF

FALCONS GM TALKS TURNAROUND, DRAFT DAY OFFERS Your first team in Atlanta improved by seven games from the previous season and made the playoffs. Do you feel this group of Falcons can make that type of turnaround? TD: “Absolutely. I have said this a number of times, our goal is to rectify with a vengeance. I believe that this is a focused group that has had a very productive offseason. We tweaked our coaching staff and front office this offseason and I think those additions have added exactly what we were looking for.”

end-of-the-season evaluation last year, we determined we needed to make some adjustments. The players have embraced the adjustments and we have seen the progress we were hoping for. The other thing we did was sign some big, strong and gritty football players. Paul Soliai, Tyson Jackson and Jon Asamoah have an element of ruggedness and grittiness that we think will permeate through the team.”

The message during the offseason throughout the organization was to get bigger and stronger. What steps have the Falcons taken to become that type of team?

The Falcons signed multiple free agents on the lines of scrimmage and drafted linemen with the first two picks in this year’s draft. Was this focus on linemen part of your longterm vision for the team after focusing on skill position players in previous offseasons?

TD: “We have adjusted our program in the weight room first and foremost. During our

TD: “We needed to be better at controlling the line of scrimmage on both the offensive side

MIKE SMITH

SMITTY ANTICIPATES TOUGHER TEAM, LIKES NEW ASSISTANTS The mantra for your team during the offseason has been to get bigger and stronger. Can you describe for the fans what changes were made in the offseason towards meeting that goal? MS: “I think the players we added in Paul Soliai, Tyson Jackson, Jon Asamoah, Jake Matthews and Ra’Shede Hageman are physical players who will help us in our quest to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. We have talked about that philosophy since Day 1 here and I think these players will help us in that area. We have also been working hard in the weight room to get bigger and stronger and I believe we have seen improvement in that area as well. I like what we have done this offseason and now we get to put the pads on and see it at full speed.”

The Falcons brought in Mike Tice to coach the O-Line and Brian Cox to coach the DLine. What do these two highly regarded coaches bring to your team? MS: “I believe they are two experienced coaches who have also played in this league. I think that is an important thing. The players know they have experience on the field as players, which helps with communication and adjustments. I like the energy they both bring and I know they have been working very hard with their groups.”

Seattle dominated the League last year with a suffocating defense. What does that mean for a league that has been quarterbackcentered for several years? MS: “You believe you are going to go as far as your quarterback goes. I do not think that chang-

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Take us through Draft Day 2014. Were you close to making a move in the first round, and what types of offers were you extended for the No. 6 pick?

teams and I am pleased to add him to our staff. We have worked together and been friends for over 30 years. We have had the opportunity to experience a lot of success together and I look forward to working with him again. We have made the commitment to improve every aspect of our organization this offseason, and with the addition of Scott to our personnel department, we have taken a step in improving our scouting staff.”

TD: “We actually did field offers at the sixth pick when we were on the clock. There was a time that we thought we may have to move up to get Jake and we discussed moving up to the third pick. Ultimately, it worked out perfectly and we got the guy we had targeted in Jake Matthews. We were actively trying to get back into the first round, but it just didn’t work out.”

The Falcons hired former Chiefs General Manager Scott Pioli during the offseason. After working with Scott in New England, what can fans expect from him as a part of the Falcons front office? TD: “Scott is one of the most respected and adept talent evaluators in the NFL. He has been a member of three Super Bowl Championship

es, but you have to create turnovers on defense and get off the field on third down. Those two are consistent for successful teams year in and year out, but the NFL is a quarterback-driven league.”

The Falcons drafted linemen with their first two picks in the draft this year and picked up multiple free agent linemen in the offseason. Do you feel this 2014 group of linemen is the best you’ve had in Atlanta? MS: “I don’t get into rankings; I leave that for the media. I can say that I like the pieces we have added to both our offensive and defensive lines. I think we have nine players who have started games along the defensive line and nine guys who have started games on the offensive line. So, I believe our depth is better this year, but we have a lot of work to do for the changes to translate to the football field, and that is what we will be working on during training camp.”

The Falcons threw the ball more than twice as much as they ran it last season. Will there be more of an emphasis on the running game this season? MS: “We need to be more effective and more consistent when we run the football. I am not sure if that means a change in our approach. We just didn’t do things last season as well as we have done in the past. We need to make

sure that when we do run the ball, we do it effectively. That will be a point of emphasis this year. We know we have to do a better job of controlling the line of scrimmage and we are focused on doing that.”

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SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS In addition to being recognized on atlantafalcons.com/community, each of the 10 selected teams/squads will receive a grant in the amount of $1,000 to support their organization. Each winning team/squad will also receive up to 30 t-shirts.

atlantafalcons.com/ youthteamcheersquad

Each winner will receive a plaque signed by Head Coach Mike Smith and a $1,000 grant from the NFL’s Youth Football Fund to help his school maintain and upgrade it’s football program.

All Captains in the Community are listed on atlantafalcons.com/community and their school receives a $1,000 grant in the student-athlete’s name to support future community initiatives.

atlantafalcons.com/coach

atlantafalcons.com/ captaininthecommunity

Now through mid-November, you can submit your nominations for Youth Football Team/Cheer Squad of the Week, Coach of the Week and Captain in the Community weekly at AtlantaFalcons.com

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SMILE IN THE GAME WIN COMPLIMENTARY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT!

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201 4 AT L A N TA FA L C O N S T R A I N I N G C A M P G UIDE

2014 Regular Season Schedule SEP 7 1:00 PMEDT

SAINTS Georgia Dome

The Falcons will open the season at home against New Orleans for the first time since 1981 when Atlanta triumphed 270. The Falcons lead the all-time series with the Saints 46-43. The franchises have played each other seven times in seasonopeners with the Falcons winning six of them. The Saints have made the playoffs in four of the past five seasons.

SEP 14 1:00 PMEDT

BENGALS

Paul Brown Stadium

Cincinnati won all eight regular-season home games last season in its AFC North championship season. Despite making the playoffs four times in the past five years, the Bengals have not won in the postseason since 1990. The Falcons have won three straight games and four of six against the Bengals. The Falcons have not lost to the Bengals since 1996.

SEP 18 8:25 PMEDT

BUCCANEERS Georgia Dome

Tampa Bay ended the Greg Schiano era after just two seasons and brought in former Bears coach Lovie Smith. Former Vikings coach Leslie Frazier is the new defensive coordinator and Jeff Tedford will coach the offense. The Bucs inked QB Josh McCown, who will compete with Mike Glennon for the starting job. Tampa spent all six draft picks on offensive players.

SEP 28 4:25 PMEDT

VIKINGS

TCF Bank Stadium

One of the most memorable and important wins in Falcons history came in the 1998 season when the Birds beat Minnesota in the NFC Championship game 30-27 on a Morten Andersen field goal in overtime. Atlanta trails the series 1510, but has won five of the last eight meetings. The last game between the two was in 2011, a 24-14 win by the Falcons.

OCT 5 1:00 PMEDT

GIANTS

MetLife Stadium

The Falcons skunked the G-Men 34-0 in 2012, the teams’ last meeting. The teams are tied 11-11 all time although Atlanta has won five of the last seven on the road and seven of 10 all time on the Giants home fields. In the last game between these two, Atlanta’s defense held Eli Manning to just 161 passing yards and nabbed two interceptions.

OCT 12 1:00 PMEDT

BEARS

Georgia Dome

The Bears enter Year 2 of the Marc Trestman era, having made the playoffs just once in the past seven seasons. Chicago boasts one of the top wide receiver duos in the League with Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffrey. The Falcons are 7-5 all time against the Bears in Atlanta. A 5-yard run by Michael Turner made the difference in the 2009 game, a 21-14 affair.

OCT 19 1:00 PMEDT

RAVENS

M&T Bank Stadium

Despite being in existence since 1996, the Ravens have played Atlanta just four times with each team taking two. The Falcons won the last meeting 26-21 in 2010 as Roddy White hauled in a 33-yard pass from Matt Ryan with just 20 seconds left in the game. This will be the first time Atlanta’s faced the Ravens without legendary linebacker Ray Lewis.

OCT 26 9:30 AMEDT

LIONS

Wembley Stadium

The Falcons will play a regular-season game overseas for the first time when they take on Detroit in London. A regular non-division opponent for many years, the Falcons have played Detroit more times (35) than any other foe not sharing the same division. Atlanta has won six of the past nine games including a 31-18 victory in 2012.

NOV 9 1:00 PMEST

BUCCANEERS Raymond James Stadium

The Falcons have won three of the past five games at Tampa Bay, including a memorable 20-10 victory in the regularseason finale of the 2009 season. The victory clinched a winning record for the Falcons and back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in franchise history. Running back Jason Snelling was key that day, with 147 rushing yards.

NOV 16 1:00 PMEST

PANTHERS

Bank of America Stadium

Carolina is coming off one of its best seasons ever, finishing 12-4 and winning the NFC South division title. Despite losing three straight in this series, the Falcons have won seven of the past 11 games and lead the all-time series 23-15. The Birds and Panthers have split the past eight meetings in Charlotte with Carolina taking the past two.

NOV 23 1:00 PMEST

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BROWNS Georgia Dome

Like the rest of the AFC North, the Falcons have not played the Browns since 2010. Atlanta won the last meeting 20-10 as the Falcons outscored their hosts 14-3 in the second half. Kroy Biermann took an interception 31 yards to seal the victory. Cleveland took the last game played in Atlanta 17-13 in 2006 after gaining an early 14-0 lead.

NOV 30 4:05 PMEST

CARDINALS Georgia Dome

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For the third year in a row, the Falcons will take on Arizona. The Cardinals took last year’s Battle of the Birds 27-13 in Glendale, but Atlanta has taken two of three and six of nine. Arizona leads the series 9-8 since moving from St. Louis and carries a 16-12 edge in the all-time series. The Falcons have won the past two games played in Atlanta.

DEC 8 8:30 PMEST

PACKERS Lambeau Field

Atlanta will travel to the Frozen Tundra late in the season for the second year in a row after dropping a 22-21 decision last year on Dec. 8. One of the Falcons most-played nondivisional opponents in recent years, this is the two teams’ sixth meeting since 2008. Atlanta lost their first five meetings to Green Bay, but has won 13 of the past 24.

DEC 14 1:00 PMEST

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STEELERS Georgia Dome

After losing nine straight to Pittsburgh from 1974 to 1999, the Falcons have lost only once in the past three meetings. Atlanta beat Pittsburgh in 2006 in the Georgia Dome, a 4138 shootout. The teams fought to a draw in the 2002 classic in the Steel City, and Pittsburgh took the 2010 season opener 15-9 at Heinz Field in the teams’ last meeting.

DEC 21 1:00 PMEST

SAINTS Mercedes-Benz Superdome

The Falcons travel to New Orleans almost four months after playing them to open the season. Nine of the past 11 games between these two ancient rivals have been decided by eight points or less, including both of last year’s games. Four of the past five, and six of the last 10 NFC South champions, have been either the Falcons or Saints.

DEC 28 1:00 PMEST

PANTHERS Georgia Dome

The Falcons have beaten Carolina in six of the last seven games in Atlanta, although the past two meetings (each team won one) have been decided by a total of three points. In the 2012 game in the Georgia Dome, Matt Ryan led the Falcons on a 77-yard drive from the one yard line to set up a Matt Bryant game-winning field goal with five seconds left.

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INSIDE THE OFFENSE QUARTERBACKS RUNNING BACKS WIDE RECEIVERS OFFENSIVE LINE

he first draft choice made by the Falcons current leadership needs no introduction. Matt Ryan has led the Falcons to four playoff appearances in his six seasons in Atlanta including the NFC Championship Game in 2012 and division championships in 2010 and 2012. The Boston College product is the franchise’s all-time leading passer and has set single-season records in passing yards, passing touchdowns and completions. Ryan is one of four quarterbacks in the NFL to start every game and lead his team to the playoffs in his rookie season. He was voted the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2008 and was named Rookie of the Year by the Sporting News. Ryan earned Pro Bowl honors in 2010 and 2012. Backing up Ryan this season will be T.J. Yates, who was acquired in June in a trade with the Houston Texans. Yates, a Marietta native and Pope High School graduate, was a Texan for three years and started five times, all in 2011. Yates played in 13 games in Houston, completing 101 passes for an even 1,100 yards and three touchdowns. The third-stringer will be either 2013 draft pick Sean Renfree or Jeff Mathews, a rookie free-agent pickup.

eteran running back Steven Jackson returns in the backfield. Despite suffering an unfortunate hamstring injury last season, Jackson racked up 543 yards and six touchdowns on the ground and 191 yards and a touchdown reception through the air. In his 10-year NFL career, Jackson has totaled 10,627 rushing yards and 3,519 receiving yards. He has scored a total of 70 times, 61 of which came on the ground. An Oregon State product, Jackson has made the Pro Bowl three times and led the NFC in rushing in 2009. Sparkplug Jacquizz Rodgers provides Offensive Coordinator Dirk Koetter with a change of pace in the backfield. Last season, Rodgers started four games in Jackson’s stead and piled up 332 rushing yards, 341 receiving yards and four total touchdowns. In three total NFL seasons, Rodgers has rushed for 899 yards and caught 126 balls for 931 yards. A four-year veteran out of Florida State, Antone Smith provides depth in the backfield. He has rushed for two scores and has seen action in 40 games. Fourth-round selection Devonta Freeman, also a former Seminole, will battle for carries this season as well.

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idely hailed as the top combination of wideouts in the League, Julio Jones and Roddy White have each surpassed benchmarks such as 1,000 yards receiving in a single season and 10 or more touchdown catches in one year. Jones caught eight touchdowns in his rookie season of 2011, tops among all NFL rookies. The Alabama product did not slow down his second season, setting career highs in receptions (79), yards (1,198) and touchdowns (10). He was leading the NFL in catches and in yards at the time of his injury last year and is looking to rebound strongly in 2014. White, meanwhile, has been one of the NFL’s top pass-catchers since his entrance to the League. A fourtime Pro Bowler (2008-2011), White owns Falcons franchise records for most receiving yards in a season, receiving yards in a game, career receiving yards and most 1,000-yard seasons. Harry Douglas is coming off a career year in which he set personal bests in receptions (80), yards (1,021) and yards per game (63.7). In the offseason, the Falcons acquired veteran receivers Devin Hester and Courtney Roby. Drew Davis will also figure into the rotation.

ith veteran Sam Baker protecting Matt Ryan’s blindside, rookie tackle Jake Matthews will compete for the starting right tackle position. Baker is heading into his seventh year as a pro, all with Atlanta. The Southern California product was drafted in the first round along with Ryan in 2008. Justin Blalock has been a rock at left guard for the Falcons, starting 110 games in his seven years in Atlanta. Baker and Blalock represent two of the longest-tenured Falcons still currently with the team. A veteran guard acquired in the offseason, Jon Asamoah started 41 games for the Chiefs in the past four seasons. He is expected to start at the right guard position. Joe Hawley and Peter Konz will split reps at center. Each player has experience at guard as well. Lamar Holmes earned 15 starts last season and will compete for the right tackle job. Slated to start at right tackle last season, Mike Johnson suffered a broken leg in the preseason and had to miss all of 2013. He will compete at both guard and tackle. Ryan Schraeder, Gabe Carimi and Harland Gunn will add valuable depth to the unit.

KICKERS

att Bryant has earned a reputation as one of the most consistent kickers in the League during his 13 seasons. He is best known in Atlanta for his last-second, game-winning kicks that have given the Falcons several victories during his five seasons with the team. His 49-yard field goal with eight seconds left to beat Seattle in the 2012 Divisional Playoffs is a favorite of Falcons fans. Bryant has kicked six game-winning field goals for the Falcons since 2010. Matt Bosher mans the punting duties for the fourth consecutive season. Bosher set a franchise record in 2012 with a 40.7-yard net average. Not counting return yardage, he averaged 46.6 yards per punt last season. The former Miami Hurricane was named the Falcons Man of the Year in 2012 for his work in the community. Bosher is also the holder on extra points for Bryant. Josh Harris returns at long snapper for his third season with the Falcons. The Carrollton native handles the snapping duties for both the punting and kicking teams. College free agent kicker Sergio Castillo was signed in the offseason out of West Texas A&M.

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INSIDE THE DEFENSE DEFENSIVE LINE

he Falcons defense harnesses an abundance of youth and speed, but the trenches contain the bulk of the defense’s experience. Free agents Paul Soliai and Tyson Jackson are difference makers who add another pair of savvy veterans to the starting rotation. Soliai is a 6-foot-4, 344-pound, run-stopping defensive tackle who previously played under Defensive Coordinator Mike Nolan in Miami. Tyson Jackson was signed in free agency from Kansas City and adds a 6-foot-4, 295-pound cornerstone at strongside defensive end. Leading the interior is Jonathan Babineaux, who is set for his 10th season with the Falcons. Babineaux has started 108 career games with the team. Veteran Osi Umenyiora enters his second year with the Birds after finishing with 7.5 sacks this past season, which gives him 82.5 for his career. Kroy Biermann and Jonathan Massaquoi are capable pass rushers with significant game experience and the versatility to drop back in coverage and hold the outside edge in the run game. Second-round pick Ra’Shede Hageman will join the rotation with Corey Peters and Peria Jerry in the interior.

LINEBACKERS

he linebacker position group was last year’s thinnest unit and also the team’s biggest surprise. Two undrafted free agents, Paul Worrilow and Joplo Bartu, filled in after injuries swept the lineup and the duo held starting jobs while finishing 2013 as two of the team’s leading tacklers. Worrilow finished tied for 12th in the NFL last season with 137 total tackles while leading all rookies in the category. Bartu finished with 96 tackles and the former Texas State standout added 3.5 sacks his rookie campaign. Worrilow and Bartu have both bulked up noticeably and enter training camp stronger and faster than last year, according to Head Coach Mike Smith. Sean Weatherspoon will miss the season with a torn Achilles suffered in early June and it will be up to the young guys to continue shining in 2014. During the offseason, the Falcons drafted four linebackers and traded for veteran Tim Dobbins. Dobbins will add quality depth and this year’s fourth-round pick, Prince Shembo, looks to bid for playing time. Shembo is a highmotor guy that proved his ability to make plays at Notre Dame.

CORNERBACKS

econd-year stars Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford head this unit. Each player took great strides as rookies in 2013. Trufant led all NFL rookies in 2013 with a franchise rookie record 17 passes defensed and added two interceptions to go with 74 combined tackles. Alford also grabbed a pair of interceptions and recovered the game-winning fumble in the OT victory over the Bills. Experience sits beside the two young starters with third-year pro Robert McClain, five-year pro Javier Arenas and eight-year pro Josh Wilson. The nickelback role (or third cornerback) is a significant piece in the secondary and the trio’s familiarity with the position makes it perhaps the Falcons most competitive position battle this training camp. McClain filled that role last year in the Falcons system and Arenas manned nickelback with the Chiefs and Cardinals prior to joining the Falcons during the offseason. Josh Wilson is a tackling machine who was signed as a free agent from the Redskins. Whichever player can instill confidence in Nolan with big plays during training camp will likely earn the nickelback role for Week 1.

SAFETIES

ix-year pro William Moore leads the safeties and is one of the team’s most impactful playmakers on the defensive side of the ball. Moore saw limited action during his rookie season in 2009, but has since filled the strong safety role in 58 games while accumulating 398 combined tackles, seven forced fumbles and 13 interceptions during the five-year span. In 2012, Moore set the tone in Atlanta’s 23-13 win over New Orleans with 11 tackles, two of the team’s five interceptions and two tackles-for-loss. Free safety Dwight Lowery joined the team this offseason from Jacksonville and is a capable starter with six years of experience. Lowery has 217 career tackles and 10 career interceptions. The Falcons selected free safety Dezmen Southward in the third round of this year’s draft. The former Wisconsin Badger showcased the 4.3 speed he posted at his pro day before the draft. The coaching staff worked with Southward during the Senior Bowl, an experience that gave him a head start in the system this offseason. Former UCF standout Kemal Ishmael and Notre Dame safety Zeke Motta generate depth.

RETURNERS

n 2013 Atlanta’s longest punt return was 25 yards and the longest kickoff return was 34 yards, so the team went out on a search for more playmakers. Now, the Falcons have arguably the NFL’s all-time greatest return man in Devin Hester along with Robert McClain and Javier Arenas competing for punt return duties. Hester’s eight seasons in Chicago included 13 punt returns for touchdowns and five kickoff returns for touchdowns. His career marks total 3,241 yards on 264 punt returns with 12.3 yards per return. On kickoff returns, Hester has accounted for 5,504 yards on 222 career returns for an average of 24.8 yards per return. Arenas has 1,035 career punt return yards with a 9.8 yards per return average and a career return average of 21.1 yards on 73 kickoff returns. At the collegiate level, Arenas was the first player in college football history to rack up more than 2,000 kick return yards and 1,500 punt return yards in a career. On kickoff returns, Hester and Arenas could be back deep together. Jacquizz Rodgers and Courtney Roby will also figure into the mix at returner.

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TAILGATE TEAM AT

Find Us On The Atlanta Falcons Tailgate Team

Stay Up To Date! Visit the Falcons Tailgate Team on Facebook for the latest on: • Appearances by Freddie Falcon and select player and cheerleader appearances* • Chances to win tickets

• Free Falcons gifts with qualifying purchase... and much more! *Please refer to schedule and location of select player and cheerleader appearances. Dates and Locations subject to change.

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Did you know that one in five people in the United States will develop skin cancer in their lifetime? How about that by age 60, twice as many men develop melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, than women of the same age? The good news is that, when caught early and treated properly, skin cancer is almost always curable. The Atlanta Falcons are Rising Up with a new campaign by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) called SPOT meâ„˘ to educate the public about skin cancer and encourage them to get screened. The AAD will be conducting free skin cancer screenings at the Falcons training camp on July 25, 26 and 27 between 2:30-6:00 p.m. Get screened for skin cancer for the chance to win autographed Falcons merchandise!

Rise Up and learn more at spotme.org

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7/7/14 11:33 AM

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201 4 AT L A N TA FA L C O N S T R A I N I N G C A M P G UIDE Atlanta picked me. They think I’m a guy that can go in and take care of the quarterback, take care of Matt Ryan, and I’m going to go in and prove that I can.”

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

JAKE MATTHEWS

MATTHEWS COMES FROM LONG LINE OF GRIDIRON ROYALTY BY CRAIG SAGER II | CSAGER@SCOREATL.COM

he Falcons drafted Texas A&M offensive tackle Jake Matthews with the No. 6 pick of this year’s draft and the 6-foot-5 rookie is slated to make an immediate impact this season at right tackle. Matthews faces the challenge of being a rookie starter, but he has both the resume and football pedigree to adapt quickly and thrive on this stage.

A FAMILY TRADITION

Professional football is a familiar lifestyle for Matthews, who was raised by his mother, Carrie, and his father, Bruce, a Class of 2007 NFL Hall of Famer. While the Manning family has the quarterback position covered with father Archie and sons Peyton and Eli, the Matthews’ rich football pedigree occupies both sides of the football and has now sent seven family members to the pros. Bruce’s Hall of Fame career earned him 14 Pro Bowl appearances at guard and helped Jake get a head start at an early age. “I’ve learned a lot from my family’s football pedigree,” said Matthews. “From day one, I kind of had a second offensive line coach in my father. Not only a great football player, but a Hall of Famer. Always being able to come home and talk to him and get his opinion was something I always took advantage of because, in my opinion, he’s the greatest offensive lineman ever to play the game. I’ll be happy to do half the things he’s done because he was such a great player. He’s someone I really look up to and I’m real proud to call him my dad.”

Bruce grew up in a similar childhood situation by learning the game from his father, Clay Matthews Sr., who was a offensive tackle at Georgia Tech and with the San Francisco 49ers. Bruce’s brother and Jake’s uncle, Clay Matthews Jr. played on the defensive side of the football and was the No. 12 pick in the 1978 draft. Clay Jr. played linebacker in the NFL for 19 seasons with stays in Cleveland and Atlanta while earning four trips to the Pro Bowl and tallying career totals of 1,561 tackles and 69.5 sacks. Jake’s cousin is none other than Clay Matthews III, Green Bay’s long-haired, muscleflexing outside linebacker. Matthews III has four Pro Bowl trips in his five NFL seasons and was named NFC Defensive Player of the Year in 2010 during Green Bay’s Super Bowl season. His younger brother is Casey Matthews, who plays linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles. An exciting wrinkle in the 2014 season would be the Matthews matchup with the two cousins on opposite sides of the football. The Falcons play at Green Bay on Dec. 8 and Jake could get the chance to go up against his cousin, who has 50 sacks and 186 total tackles in his five seasons on the Packers’ defense. “I’m fired up,” said Jake about what it would be like to face his cousin this season. “I talked to my dad; some of his greatest memories was him going against his brothers. I finally get an opportunity to play against my cousin [Clay Matthews III]. He’s an All-Pro and a stud. It’s going to be a huge challenge, but I’m looking forward to it. I know that’s the reason why

With the amount of success carried with the Matthews name, Jake might have the highest expectations of all as he enters the 2014 season. He’s the earliest pick out of the seven Matthews that have made their ways to the NFL. He’s also just the second offensive lineman drafted by the Falcons in the first round in the past 22 years. Not to mention that he’s had NFL potential and a target on his back since his prep days as an All-American lineman at Elkins High School in Missouri City, Texas. In the midst of all the pressure, Matthews has navigated his way to the pros with maturity and a range of skills that have been perfected over the years. During his freshman season with the Aggies, Matthews took over the starting tackle role when Brian Thomas shifted inside to fill in for injuries. A&M allowed just 14 sacks in the final seven games of the season after surrendering 23 in the first half. Matthews’ play earned him AllBig 12 freshman honors and he was named honorable mention on the All-Big 12 team. Matthews’ believes he developed the most and became the player he is today during his final two seasons at the collegiate level. “I’m a strong believer that the SEC is the best conference in college football and going against all those top players week in and week out is something that really developed my game, especially that junior and senior year,” admitted Matthews. “I really felt like I developed the most and became the player I am today.” Matthews will line up at right tackle adjacent to veteran guard Jon Asamoah, who was signed this offseason from Kansas City. The duo has adapted quickly and looks to be a force on the right side together. “It’s a good blend of experience with Jon,” said Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith. “Jake is just such an advanced guy for somebody coming out of college. It’s a good start and they’ve learned how to play together. Communication is the critical component for Offensive Coordinator Dirk Koetter, and he believes the rest will take care of itself. “Communication is always important and especially important when you have a new oline coach and a first-round draft pick tackle and a free-agent guard,” said Koetter. “I think Coach Tice has done a great job of coming in and laying down his expectations for the o-linemen. I think those guys have been very open to listening to what he has to say and the changes that we want to make. Now we just have to continue the process until we get to the season.”

Matthews Family Tree GREAT GRANDFATHER Howard Lynn Matthews (1889-1975) Minor league baseball player and boxing, baseball and track coach at The Citadel

GRANDFATHER Clay Matthews Sr. (born 1928) Offensive Tackle, San Francisco 49ers (1950, 1953-1955) Bruce Matthews

Clay Matthews Jr.

UNCLE Clay Matthews Jr. (born 1956) Linebacker, Cleveland Browns (1978-1993), Atlanta Falcons (1994-96) Clay Matthews III

Casey Matthews

Kyle Matthews

FATHER Bruce Matthews (born 1961) Offensive Guard, Houston Oilers/Tennessee Oilers/Titans (1983-2001) Kevin Matthews

Jake Matthews

Mike Matthews

COUSIN Clay Matthews III (born 1986) Outside Linebacker, Green Bay Packers (2009-present)

COUSIN Casey Matthews (born 1989) Linebacker, Philadelphia Eagles (2011-present)

COUSIN Kyle Matthews (born 1982) Safety, USC (2000-03)

BROTHER Kevin Matthews (born 1987) Center, Tennessee Titans (2010-2013) *Currently a free agent

BROTHER Mike Matthews (born 1994) Center, Texas A&M

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201 4 AT L A N TA FA L C O N S T R A I N I N G C A M P G UIDE but he threw a ridiculous 27 interceptions last season. Nick Foles beat out Vick for the Eagles job and promptly led that team to the 2013 division crown. Then, of course, there is Tony Romo. There is no question Romo can make the Cowboys an NFC East contender, but can he get them over the hump in December?

NORTHERN LIGHTS

NFL PREVIEW

WILL WEST DIVISION TEAMS MEET AGAIN IN THE SUPER BOWL? BY RICKY DIMON | RDIMON@SCOREATL.COM

he Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos obviously hope there is no change at or near the top as this season progresses. They are early favorites to make it back to the Super Bowl, and why not? No division will be more intriguing than the NFC West. At least on paper, it features the two best teams in the conference in Seattle and San Francisco. The Arizona Cardinals got overshadowed last season, but their rise from 5-11 to 10-6 should not be forgotten. Arizona can rely on a defense that mixes in a nice blend of youth and experience, but the offense’s supporting role will have to be marked by fewer mistakes by veteran quarterback Carson Palmer. The St. Louis Rams have posted a losing record seven straight years and have not finished above .500 since 2003, but they have accounted for themselves well in arguably the toughest division in football the past two seasons. If last season’s Super Bowl is any indication, Denver is simply not as good of a team from top to bottom as Seattle. It can be argued, however, that the Broncos are more likely than their conquerors to win their respective division. The bottom line is that the competition in the AFC West is not as strong. Both wild-card teams came from within the division last season, but the San Diego Chargers are a perennial .500-esque squad. The Oakland Raiders added a nice pass-rusher in Khalil Mack and brought in Matt Schaub in an attempt to stabilize the quarterback position, but they appear

to be several pieces away from contending. A revamped Kansas City franchise will have to prove its 2013 playoff appearance was no fluke.

BEASTS OF THE EAST

No division has been dominated of late quite like the AFC East. The Patriots have won it five times in succession, 10 times in the last 11 seasons and 11 times in the last 13. They see their supporting cast turn over drastically every now and then, but they still have Tom Brady. Rob Gronkowski’s health will once again be a factor on the offensive side of the ball. On defense, Darrelle Revis has been assigned to replace Aqib Talib. As usual, the New York Jets will generate plenty of attention—once again at the quarterback position. They drafted Geno Smith last year and, this year, added Michael Vick as a free agent and selected Tajh Boyd in the draft. The Miami Dolphins may be in rebuilding mode after last season’s off-the-field debacle with the offensive line, while the Buffalo Bills will be exciting to watch with former Clemson stars C.J. Spiller and rookie Sammy Watkins. Speaking of different stories, the NFC East is a division laced with parity and one that in the current era almost never has any kind of clear-cut favorite heading into any season. No group of four is more of a quarterback saga than this one. The fate of the Redskins rests on the arm and feet of Robert Griffin III. New York’s Eli Manning is a two-time Super Bowl MVP,

Cincinnati was the only real bright light in the North last season—and that goes for both conferences. The Bengals coasted to the AFC North title by a three-game margin at 115. They outscored opponents by 125 points, while second-place Pittsburgh was second best in that department with a modest plus9 differential. The rest of the division is one big question mark. Baltimore Ravens’ running back Ray Rice is dealing with off-the-field issues, Cleveland wideout Josh Gordon is facing a season-long suspension and the Steelers did not do much on paper during the offseason to improve an 8-8 squad. In the NFC North, the Packers have been the finest cheese in all the land over the past three years. No matter that they have endured a steady decline (15-1 to 11-5 to 8-7-1), they have still been good enough to hold off a motley crew of challengers including the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions. Detroit’s Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson-led offense make the team dangerous, but it will have to cut down on senseless mistakes in order to be taken seriously. The Bears’ once-proud defense gave up a horrendous 478 points last year, leaving it tied for second to last in that category in the NFL. Minnesota did some nice work in the draft by selecting both linebacker Anthony Barr and quarterback Ted-

dy Bridgewater in the first round, but first-year head coach Mike Zimmer is not likely to see his team take a one-year playoff plan.

SOUTHERN COOKING

In the AFC South, it’s the one team that really has nothing to do with the south geographically that appears to be on the rise. Franchise quarterback Andrew Luck has guided the Indianapolis Colts to two straight playoff berths and the team may still be feeding off the momentum of last season’s epic comeback win over Kansas City in the wildcard round. The Texans, of course, are going in the other direction. They plunged from 12-4 in 2012 to 2-14 in 2013, giving them the No. 1 overall pick. The Jacksonville Jaguars are starting over with Blake Bortles and the Tennessee Titans are finally going in a different direction at running back, away from former star Chris Johnson. No division has shared its titles among the four teams with more generosity than the NFC South since its inception in 2002. In 12 seasons, each one of the four has taken home top honors on three occasions. True to form, there is no telling which one will come out on top this time around. The Falcons stumbled through an injury-plagued 2013 and are off to a rocky start in the same department in 2014, having lost linebacker Sean Weatherspoon to a torn Achilles in early June. Drew Brees leads what should be another potent New Orleans Saints offense and Cam Newton has a great Luke Kuechly-defense behind him with the Panthers. Lovie Smith is in as the new head coach of a young Tampa Bay Bucs team, which won four of its last eight games in 2013 after starting the year 0-8.

NFL’S BEST RECORDS SINCE 2010 FRANCHISE

YEARS IN PLAYOFFS

WINS

LOSSES

TIES

New England Patriots

Green Bay Packers

Baltimore Ravens

New Orleans Saints

San Francisco 49ers

Atlanta Falcons

Pittsburgh Steelers

Denver Broncos

Seattle Seahawks

Chicago Bears

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SAFETY NET

NEW ARRIVALS

BY CRAIG SAGER II | CSAGER@SCOREATL.COM

rom the first day of the NFL’s free-agency period, the Falcons aggressively combed through the League’s potential pickups and bolstered an already-talented roster. It started on the lines of scrimmage and journeyed to the secondary, special teams and covered both sides of the football. Offensive guard Jon Asamoah joined defensive end Tyson Jackson and nose tackle Paul Soliai as the Falcons’ trio of Day 1 signees (March 11). Asamoah is a 6-foot-4, 305-pound run blocking specialist who previously played in Kansas City where he helped clear lanes for one of the NFL’s best rushing attacks. Asamoah has size, strength and experience that give the Falcons enough confidence to put him directly into the starting role where he’ll line up next to rookie right tackle Jake Matthews. Jackson was the No. 3 overall pick of the 2008 draft and like Asamoah was imported from the Chiefs. Jackson adds a versatile and imposing piece to the puzzle at 6-foot-4, 296-pounds and he has increased his sack total the past three seasons, including a careerhigh four in 2013. Soliai is another big-bodied addition to the team at 6-foot-4, 340 pounds and is able to take on double teams and anchor the middle of the defensive line. He is a seven-year vet who played under Atlanta’s current Defensive Coordinator Mike Nolan while he was with the Dolphins in 2010-2011. The pair worked well together and Soliai excels at Nolan’s defensive scheme.

The Falcons goal this year was to find starters in free agency who will mesh into the playbook. Following the release of Thomas DeCoud, former Jacksonville free safety Dwight Lowery was picked up to compete for the starting job in Atlanta. As a rookie playing for the Jets in 2008, Lowery appeared in all 16 games for the Jets and made 54 solo tackles, 10 assists, forced five fumbles and had 16 passes defensed (all are still career-highs). He picked off three passes in both 2009 and 2010 (career-highs) and had at least one interception in each of his first five seasons. Lowery has experience in a multitude of roles that will help him settle in quickly with the Falcons.

YEARS IN NFL

The Falcons lost Tony Gonzalez to retirement this offseason and signed McKenna Sean “Bear” Pascoe from the Giants to help fill the vacancy. Pascoe is a five-year veteran who has played in 66 career games, including 32 starts. He was undeniably a key contributor in New York even without frequently showing up in the box score. He played in all 16 games last season with six starts. Pascoe also brings championship experience to Atlanta, having won Super Bowl XLVI with the Giants. On June 18, Atlanta traded Akeem Dent for Houston quarterback T.J. Yates and veteran linebacker Tim Dobbins. Dobbins is a veteran who brings much-needed experience and depth after playing under Nolan with the Dolphins in 2010. Yates, a Marietta native, returned to his home state and will fill in as a solid backup quarterback behind Matt Ryan. Yates’ first start came against the Falcons in 2011 and the former Pope High School Greyhound led the Texans to a 17-10 victory. Like Ryan, Yates is a prototypical dropback passer with good size (6-foot-4) and has completed 101 of 166 career passes for 1,100 yards and three touchdowns.

YEARS IN NFL

THE HUNT

FALCONS ADD SEVERAL KEY PIECES THROUGH FREE AGENCY, HOUSTON TRADE

CHI-TOWN TALENT

One week into the free-agency period, the Falcons signed Hall of Fame-bound return man Devin Hester. Hester holds the record for most punt return touchdowns in NFL history with 13 and last season he tied the record for most return touchdowns (punt and kickoff combined) with his 19th such score. Hester’s playmaking ability translates to the offense as well and he can step in as a receiving threat. The 31-year old recorded 217 receptions for 2,807 yards and 14 touchdowns during his eight seasons in Chicago. The Falcons landed another former Bear in Gabe Carimi, who played in the Windy City with Hester in 2011-12 before joining Tampa Bay last year.

Javier Arenas

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LAST TEAM

CARDINALS

Jon Asamoah YEARS IN NFL

LAST TEAM

CHIEFS

Gabe Carimi YEARS IN NFL

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BEARS

Tim Dobbins

LAST TEAM

TEXANS

Devin Hester YEARS IN NFL

LAST TEAM

BEARS

Tyson Jackson YEARS IN NFL

LAST TEAM

CHIEFS

Dwight Lowery YEARS IN NFL

LAST TEAM

JAGUARS

Bear Pascoe YEARS IN NFL

SPARKING COMPETITION

The Falcons increased competition in the secondary by adding cornerbacks Javier Arenas from the Arizona Cardinals and Josh Wilson from Washington. Arenas is also a return specialists and during the 2013 season brought back 24 kickoffs for 493 yards and posted a career-best 21.4 yards per return. On defense, the former Alabama standout has played in 63 games during his pro career, while recording 148 tackles, five sacks, three forced fumbles, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries and 22 passes defensed in just 12 starts. Coming off a three-year stint with the Redskins, Wilson is battling Arenas for the cornerback position. The best season of Wilson’s eight-year NFL career came last year, when he set career-highs in total tackles (93), solo

LAST TEAM

GIANTS

Paul Soliai YEARS IN NFL

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DOLPHINS

Josh Wilson YEARS IN NFL

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REDSKINS

T.J. Yates YEARS IN NFL

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TEXANS

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201 4 AT L A N TA FA L C O N S T R A I N I N G C A M P G UIDE urally, but blocking, that’s something where you have to have heart. I take a lot of pride in that, so it’s one of the things I work at the most.”

TACKLING MACHINES

DRAFT RECAP

FALCONS DRAFT NETS SEVEN DEFENDERS IN ADDITION TO FREEMAN, MATTHEWS BY CRAIG SAGER II | CSAGER@SCOREATL.COM

their inaugural season in 1966, the AtSNFLince lanta Falcons have selected players in the draft to build tradition and take the fran-

chise to new heights. Tommy Nobis set the standard as Atlanta’s first-ever draft pick in 1966 and Hall of Famers, Pro Bowlers and fan favorites have been selected since. Each season when the Falcons bring in a new class of draftees, they stand in the same shoes as the team’s all-time greats did before them. There are draft picks that have a lasting and, in some cases, living legacy with the Falcons and they set the bar high for every incoming rookie.

TOP TACKLE

NEVER MISS A FALCONS GAME.

The Falcons only other offensive selection was running back Devonta Freeman in the fourth round. Freeman is a proven playmaker who helped Florida State claim the 2014 BCS National Title. The All-ACC first-team running back rushed for 1,106 yards and scored 15 total touchdowns becoming the first FSU back since Warrick Dunn (1996) to rush for 1,000 yards. Freeman has the tools to be a three-down back in the NFL and he entered offseason workouts on a mission to prove his worth. “I feel like I can come in and make a great impact because I know how to make guys miss in small areas,” said Freeman. “Catching and running the ball is the easy part and comes nat-

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Seven of Atlanta’s nine picks were on the defensive side of the football and Ra’Shede Hageman at pick No. 37 was the first taken. Hageman stands 6-foot-6, 310 pounds and can line up as a defensive tackle or end. Hageman played his collegiate career at Minnesota and showed his versatility as an all-Big Ten selection last season with 38 total tackles, 13 tackles-forloss, two sacks, two blocked kicks and an interception. His ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage and create mismatches is an ideal trait for coordinator Mike Nolan’s multiple packages. The Falcons delved into the Big 10’s crop of talent again and selected Dezmen Southward out of Wisconsin with the No. 68 pick in the third round. Southward, a two-time consensus AllBig Ten honorable mention, finished his career with 152 tackles, four forced fumbles, two interceptions and 11 passes defensed. His father, Eli, coaches defensive backs at Toledo.

Prince Shembo was the first of four linebackers taken in this year’s draft. The Falcons have moved the former Notre Dame standout to the interior linebacker role. Shembo proved to be a capable pass rusher at the college level and the move to the inside is something that Nolan hopes will get the best out of Shembo’s skillset. “I think it helps us and it helps him,” said Nolan about the move. “I think he’s [Shembo’s] better suited to play the inside more than he is the outside.” Smith was impressed with Shembo’s range this offseason and pointed out multiple ways the defender can contribute. “He has the ability to play defensive end, DRAFT SYNOPSIS outside linebacker and inside linebacker,” The Falcons had an agenda in this year’s Smith said. “He’s got the flexibility. He may draft to find a centerpiece on the offensive line, look like he’s lined up as an inside linebacker a ball carrier capable of an every down back role but when the ball is snapped, he’s doing the job and depth and stability on the defensive side of of a defensive end. That’s the fun part of the the ball. Matthews fulfills the role on the offenputting this defense together.” sive line and Freeman fits the bill at running back. The Falcons took cornerback Ricardo AlOn defense, the Falcons played the most len in the fifth round. Allen is a hard-nosed ballhawk who finished his career at Purdue rookies in the NFL a season ago. Adding more with 13 interceptions and four interception re- young talent and depth was a great way for this team to continue securing a bright future turns for touchdowns. B:4.982” Atlanta’s last three 2014 picks were line- on that side of the ball. This incoming class has T:4.982”worked in a physical and competitive environbackers Marquis Spruill, Yawin Smallwood ment from Day 1 of rookie mini-camp and has and Tyler Starr. The Falcons traded sixth- and S:4.482” seventh-round picks to take Spruill in the fifth already shown an all-business attitude as they round. At Syracuse, Spruill made 243 tackles, begin their journey to the regular season.

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With Atlanta’s first selection of this year’s draft, it selected offensive tackle Jake Matthews (No. 6 overall pick). This polished 6-foot-5, 305-pounder hails from Texas A&M and became only the second offensive lineman taken by the franchise in the first round during the past 22 drafts. “I think this pick was a steal,” Matthews said. “Being able to be picked this high and to such a great team. … This is a team that can compete for the Super Bowl next year.” Jake, the son of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews and the cousin of Green Bay’s Clay Matthews, was born to play the game. His family’s success on the gridiron places heavy expectations on the rookie, but has also been the high standard fueling Matthews to greatness throughout his collegiate career. “I think I’m a big technician,” said Matthews. “I take a lot of pride in what it takes to play offensive line.” Matthews meshes with an offensive line that already prides itself on execution and mistake-free football and will take his first NFL snaps next to veteran guard Jon Asamoah.

GETTING DEFENSIVE

43 for losses. In the seventh round, Smallwood was selected with Atlanta’s compensatory pick and, like Shembo, is a very versatile linebacker with the ability to rush the passer. Smallwood finished his UConn career with 332 total tackles, 27 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks and five forced fumbles. Atlanta’s final pick (No. 255) was Starr, who has great size at 6-foot-4, 250 pounds and is another playmaker the coaching staff is able to move around to see which position best suits him. Starr played his college football at South Dakota and set a school record with 27 career sacks while adding 13 forced fumbles. Starr’s most valuable skill is his ability to run with tight ends in coverage and, if he continues to prove his ability to do so, he will find a role on the defense.

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