ATLANTA, Ga- The Atlanta Falcons held a special event today for the final open practice of their 2019 Training Camp with a Military Appreciation Day for fans to attend inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The annual event seems to be a big hit with fans, who turned out in droves to get a first look at this Falcons team before it gets into the meat of their preseason schedule. The Atlanta Falcons said they sold out all of the tickets available, with the proceeds going to benefit the Veterans Empowerment Organization.
The big names were all suited up to participate in the practice, with surprises Julio Jones and Deion Jones in full gear for the first time this training camp. The day started with everyone breaking off into their respective position groups, before coming together and running offensive versus defensive situational scrimmages for the remainder of practice.
Today was the first sighting of newly signed quarterback Matt Simms, who he Falcons signed after quarterback Kurt Benkert suffered a toe injury in the NFL Hall of Fame Game on Wednesday night that was described as “serious.” Simms worked as the third-string quarterback behind Matt Ryan and Matt Schaub, and Atlanta will try and quickly get Simms up to speed with the offense before their next game.
Last week, first round pick Kaleb McGary went through a heart procedure that will keep him out for some time. Coach Quinn was asked after practice if there was a timetable for his return, or if he could even make it back for the first game and he said, “I think so. The reason we say that is we’re not going to kind of know until he goes through some of the steps with the medical staff. The next marker for him will be in a week or two, and then another one after that. The good news is by no means is this a redshirt year. As far as when the opener is, it’s too early to tell.”
This was the final open practice of the preseason for the Atlanta Falcons, who are now set to begin their march towards the 2019 NFL regular season. Following a disappointing 2018 that was riddled with injuries to key players, Atlanta is itching to rebound and prove their doubters wrong. If today’s strong attendance at an open practice is any indication, fan anticipation is also high for this team that is loaded with talent on both sides of the ball. Will this team be able to reach their full potential? Stay tuned in here at TheSkyBoat.com to find out as we will provide full coverage throughout the pre and regular season.
Atlanta will face off against the Miami Dolphins Thursday, August 8th at 7:30 p.m. from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Written by Brian Pohl
