Falcons start camp with high expectations

By D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

After shocking much of the professional football world last season with an 11-5 record and a surprising playoff berth, the Falcons are set to open training camp Saturday.

They want the atmosphere to be fan-friendly as they set out to prove that last season was not a fluke and hopefully end the franchise’s dubious distinction of never posting consecutive winning seasons.

The Falcons will have 12 practices, a scrimmage and a mock game open to the public, starting with all four practices this weekend.

The highlight for fans is an All-Access Weekend, featuring a scrimmage at 7 p.m. Friday at Brookwood High School followed by a mock game at 11 a.m. Aug. 8 at the Georgia Dome.

Here’s some helpful information about training camp:

Three things to work on

● The Falcons have to replace five starters on defense, including longtime fan favorite Keith Brooking, who left for Dallas during free agency.

● Quarterback Matt Ryan has to prove that he wasn’t just a rookie flash.

● Tony Gonzalez, a 10-time Pro Bowler, was added during the offseason. He must be integrated into the offensive operation.

Three players flying under the radar

● Lawrence Sidbury, defensive end: He was drafted in the fourth round, but several teams had a second-round grade on him. He could be the steal of the draft.

● Troy Bergeron, wide receiver: A whiz in the Arena Football League, Bergeron looked ready to claim a roster spot in the offseason.

● Rashad Bobino, linebacker: An undrafted free agent from Texas, he might be a sleeper. Bobino started more than 40 games for the Longhorns.

Treats for the fans

● Tweet up! NFL commissioner Roger Goodell sent a memo to all 32 teams Thursday encouraging them to allow media blogging and tweeting at practices open to the public. Let’s have a Tweet party y’all!

● Fun and games: On Saturday and Sunday, children ages 17 and under can get Falcons cheerleader autographs, play a game called “look like a pro” and win prizes.

● Autographs: Selected Falcons players will sign autographs following practices that are open to the public.

Notable games

● First exhibition: The Falcons face former Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford and former Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson when they travel to Detroit to play the Lions at 4 p.m. on Aug. 15 (WXIA).

● First home exhibition: One of the AFC’s top teams, the San Diego Chargers, comes to the Georgia Dome at 8 p.m. on Aug. 29 (CBS).

● Season opener: One of last season’s surprise teams, the Miami Dolphins, provides the opposition at the Georgia Dome. Game time is 1 p.m. on Sept. 13 (CBS).