Ryan eager to learn from San Diego’s 3-4

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

FLOWERY BRANCH — The Falcons are preparing for their game against the San Diego Chargers on Saturday as if it were a regular-season game.

For the first time in the exhibition season, the coaching staff has crafted a game plan for the players to follow, and quarterback Matt Ryan sees a great deal of benefit in the plan because San Diego uses a 3-4 defense. The Falcons will see two very good 3-4 teams — Miami and New England — early in the regular season.

“We’ve got some 3-4 teams on the schedule this year,” Ryan said. “I know San Francisco, New England, and even Week One against Miami. It will be good for us to see some 3-4 stuff and get a feel for it. “

Ryan and the other starters will play at least a half against the Chargers.

Slot by committee

The Falcons won’t use one player to replace wide receiver Harry Douglas, who was the slot receiver and sometimes ran the ball on reverses. Douglas suffered a torn ACL on Aug. 5 and is out for the season.

“At any point, any receiver in this offense could be in the slot,” wide receiver Brian Finneran said. “It’s important to know all of the positions in this offense and understand the scheme and the thought process behind the play.”

Finneran played some in the slot last season and understands how offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey uses the position.

“The thing that Mularkey does is moving guys all over the field and putting us in situations that we are going to have success,” Finneran said. “If that means motioning Roddy [White] into the slot on a certain play or me and [Marty] Booker on certain plays.”

Injury updates

● Rookie safety William Moore, the team’s second-round draft choice, made it through his second practice without any problems in his left knee following arthroscopic knee surgery earlier this month. Moore stayed with White on a streak up the sidelines, showing a good speed.

● Cornerback Christopher Owens (leg) returned to practice.

● Defensive end Willie Evans (back) and defensive tackle Jason Jefferson (groin, hip flexor) were the only players who missed practice.