Thirty-three running backs, four of them rookies, will see a larger payday than Atlanta's Devonta Freeman this season. The two-time Pro Bowl selection is entering his fourth season in the NFL and is negotiating...Jeff Gross/Getty Images

Leonard Fournette, Jacksonville, $18.351 million. (Rookie, 4th overall pick in 2017 NFL Draft.)Elsa/Getty Images

Le'Veon Bell, Pittsburgh, $12.120 million. (2016 stats: 261 carries, 1,268 yards, 7 TDs in 12 games.)Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Christian McCaffrey, Carolina, $11.144 million. (Rookie, 8th overall pick in 2017 NFL draft.)Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Doug Martin, Tampa Bay, $7 million. (2016 stats: 144 carries, 421 yards, 3 TDs in 8 games.)Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

LeSean McCoy, Buffalo, $6.250 million. (2016 stats: 234 carries, 1,267 yards, 13 TDs in 15 games.)Patrick Smith/Getty Images

DeMarco Murray, Tennessee, $6.250 million (2016 stats: 293 carries, 1,287 yards, 9 TDs in 16 games.)Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Lamar Miller, Houston, $5.5 million. (2016 stats: 268 carries, 1,073 yards, 5 TDs in 14 games.)Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

Chris Ivory, Jacksonville, $5 million (2016 stats: 117 carries, 439 yards, 3 TDs in 11 games.)Rey Del Rio/Getty Images

James White, New England, $4.96 million. (2016 stats: 60 carries, 551 yards, 5 TDs in 16 games.)Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Eddie Lacy, Green Bay, $4.25 million. (2016 stats: 71 carries, 360 yards, 0 TDs in 5 games.) Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

Jonathan Stewart, Carolina, $4.25 million (2016 stats: 218 carries, 824 yards, 9 TDs in 13 games.)Grant Halverson/Getty Images

Latavius Murray, Minnesota, $4.25 million. (2016 stats: 195 carries, 788 yards, 12 TDs in 14 games.)Thomas B. Shea/Getty Images

Ryan Mathews, Philadelphia, $4 million. (2016 stats: 155 carries, 661 yards, 8 TDs in 13 games.)Mitchell Leff/Getty Images

Matt Forte, New York Jets, $4 million. (2016 stats: 218 carries, 813 yards, 7 TDs in 14 games.)Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Darren Sproles, Philadelphia, $4 million. (2016 stats: 94 carries, 438 yards, 2 TDs in 15 games.)Rich Schultz/Getty Images

Mike Gillislee, New England, $4 million. (2016 stats: 101 carries, 577 yards, 8 TDs in 15 games.)Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images

Bilal Powell, New York Jets, $3.75 million. (2016 stats: 131 carries, 722 yards, 3 TDs in 16 games.)Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Mark Ingram, New Orleans, $3.7 million. (2016 stats: 205 carries, 1,043 yards, 6 TDs in 16 games.)Matt Hazlett/Getty Images

Adrian Peterson, New Orleans, $3.5 million. (2016 stats: 37 carries, 72 yards, 0 TDs in 3 games.)Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

Frank Gore, New Orleans, $3.5 million. (2016 stats: 263 carries, 1,025 yards, 4 TDs in 16 games.)Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Danny Woodhead, Baltimore, $3.25 million. (2106 stats: 19 carries, 116 yards, 0 TDs in 2 games.)Peter Aiken/Getty Images

Dalvin Cook, Minnesota, $3.225 million. (Rookie, 2nd round -- 41st overall -- in 2017 NFL Draft.)Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Rex Burkhead, New England, $3.15 million. (2016 stats: 74 carries, 344 yards, 2 TDs in 16 games.)Andy Lyons/Getty Images

C.J. Anderson, Denver, $3 million. (2016 stats: 110 carries, 437 yards, 4 TDs in 7 games.)Harry How/Getty Images

Giovani Bernard, Cincinnati, $3 million. (2016 stats: 91 carries, 337 yards, 2 TDs in 10 games.)Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Marshawn Lynch, Oakland, $3 million. (Did not play in 2016. 2015 stats: 111 carries, 417 yards, 3 TDs in 7 games.)Mat Hayward/Getty Images

Shane Vereen, New York Giants, $2.75 million. (2016 stats: 33 carries, 158 yards, 1 TDs in 5 games.)Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Chris Thompson, Washington, $2.74 million. (2016 stats: 68 carries, 356 yards, 3 TDs in 16 games.)Al Bello/Getty Images

Isaiah Crowell, Cleveland, $2.74 million. (2016 stats: 198 carries, 952 yards, 7 TDs in 16 games.)Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

Joe Mixon, Cincinnati, $2.568 million. (Rookie, 2nd round -- 48th overall -- in 2017 NFL Draft.)Sean Gardner/Getty Images

Jamaal Charles, Denver, $2.5 million. (2016 carries: 12 carries, 40 yards, 1 TD in 3 games.)Jason Hanna/Getty Images

Damien Williams, Miami, $1.797 million. (2016 stats: 35 carries, 115 yards, 3 TDs in 15 games.)Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Terrance West, Baltimore, $1.797 million. (2016 stats: 193 carries, 774 yards, 5 TDs in 16 games.)Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Devonta Freeman, Atlanta, $1.797 million. (2016 stats: 227 carries, 1,079 yards, 11 TDs in 16 games.)Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Just six days until: A talented group of players return, plus a few more have been added, as the Falcons open training camp on July 26. The Falcons’ first exhibition game is August 10 and they open the season Sept...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.co

Just six days until .... running back Devonta Freeman runs around, through and over tacklers.   (AP Photo/Butch Dill)Butch Dill/AP

Just six days until ...  Falcons safety Keanu Neal starts laying people out again.  Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.co

Just six days until ... linebackers Deion Jones (above) and DeVondre Campbell show how much better they will be in their second seasons. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.co

Just six days until ... the NFL’s best receiver, Julio Jones (11), takes over and dominates on the field again. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)Mike McCarn/AP

Just six days until ... we start finding out if promising tight end Austin Hooper  is ready to be the starter full-time. (AP Photo/Phelan Ebenhack)Phelan Ebenhack/AP

Just six days until ... top cornerback Desmond Trufant returns to action after missing much of last season due to an injury. Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Just six days until ... MVP quarterback Matt Ryan is back picking apart defenses. Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Just six days until ... we see more explosiveness from wide receiver Taylor Gabriel. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.co

Just six days until ... shifty running back Tevin Coleman breaks into the open field again. Curtis Compton /ccompton@ajc.comCurtis Compton/Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.co

Just six days until ... we start finding out how much better the defensive line will be thanks to the addition of free agent defensive tackle Dontari Poe (right). Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick had an impressive debut in the inaugural American Flag Football League game between Team Vick and Team Owens Tuesday, June 28, 2017, at Avaya Stadium in San Jose,...Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Team Vick’s Evan Rodriguez, a fullback, led all receivers with nine catches for 210 yards and 4 touchdowns. Team Vick recorded zero rushing yards.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Michael Vick and Evan Rodriguez celebrate one of Rodriguez’s four touchdown catches.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Michael Vick threw for 547 yards and 8 touchdowns in his team’s 64-41 win over team led by former NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Team Vick wide receiver Chad Ochocinco had three catches for 66 yards.Bob Drebin/ISIPhotos.com

Nikita Whitlock led Team Owens wide receivers with 9 receptions for 152 yards and 1 touchdown.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Team Vick’s Eddie Whitley makes a play.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Team Vick’s Greg Jenkins (left) leaps for a touchdown catch over Team Owens’ Steve Smith II during the inaugural American Flag Football League  game.Bob Drebin/ISIPhotos.com

The game between Team Owens and Team Vick featured standardized rules for players and fans as well as technological advancements, including sensor-enabled patented e-flag for accurate officiating.Bob Drebin/ISIPhotos.com

Chad Ochocinco made an impressive catch. His longest grab went for 34 yards.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Team Owens Tracy Clark had 179 return yards.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Team Vick’s Max Seibald (left) defends Team Owens wide receiver Nikita Whitlock.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Team Owens’ Derek Hagan reaches out to score one of his two touchdowns.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

 Team Vick members celebrate the 64-41 win over Team Owens in the inaugural American Flag Football League Tuesday, June 28, 2017, at Avaya Stadium in San Jose, Calif.Casey Valentine/ISIPhotos.com

Breaking down the Atlanta Falcons' 2017 schedule, which kicks off with an exhibition game against the Dolphins Aug. 10.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Exhibition opener - Thursday, Aug. 10 vs. Dolphins: Atlanta will travel to south Florida for the first of four exhibition games.AP Photo/Lynne Sladky

Falcons at Pittsburgh, Aug. 20: Atlanta travels north to face the Steelers in its second and final exhibition road game.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Cardinals at Falcons, Aug. 26: Atlanta will play its first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium in a Saturday night exhibition contest against Arizona.hshin@ajc.com

Jaguars at Falcons, Aug. 31: The Thursday night exhibition finale will be the second straight game in the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium.Jason Getz/Special

Regular-season opener -- Falcons at Bears, Sept. 10: Atlanta travels to Chicago to face coach John Fox and the Bears. (1 p.m., FOX).AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh

Game 2 -- Packers at Falcons, Sept. 17: Rematch of the NFC championship game will be the first regular-season game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium -- and it's in prime time. (8:30 p.m., NBC).Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.co

Game 3 -- Falcons at Lions, Sept. 24: Atlanta will face former UGA quarterback Matthew Stafford and the Lions in its second game against the NFC North in the first three weeks of the season.AP Photo/Duane Burleson, File

Game 4 -- Bills at Falcons, Oct. 1: Atlanta will get its first look at Buffalo under new head coach Sean McDermott in the first of four straight games against the AFC East.AP Photo/Bill Wippert

Game 5 -- Dolphins at Falcons, Oct. 15: Atlanta will have had a bye after its Oct. 1 game vs. Buffalo before facing Miami at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Game 6 -- Falcons at Patriots, Oct. 22: Super Bowl 51 rematch will take place on New England's home field in a Sunday night prime time matchup.John Spink/AJC/John Spink/AJC

Game 7 -- Falcons at Jets, Oct. 29: Atlanta will face Todd Bowles and the Jets in the last of its four straight games against the AFC East.AP Photo/Bill Kostroun

Game 8 -- Falcons at Panthers, Nov. 5: Atlanta will return to the site where it clinched the NFC South last season when it plays in Charlotte against its division rival.AP Photo/Mike McCarn

Game 9 -- Cowboys at Falcons, Nov. 12: Atlanta will get its first look at second-year standouts Dak Prescott and Zeke Elliott when Dallas makes its first apperance at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.AP Photo/Don Wright, File

Game 10 -- Falcons at Seahawks, Nov. 20: Monday night football in the Great Northwest will feature Atlanta and Seattle meeting for the third time in 13 months.Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.co

Game 11 -- Buccaneers at Falcons, Nov. 26: Atlanta will host division rival Tampa for the first time since dropping the 2016 regular-season opener at the Georgia Dome.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Game 12 -- Vikings at Falcons, Dec. 3: Atlanta will host one of its former assistants as Mike Zimmer brings Minnesota into Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the first time.Andy Clayton-King/AP Photo/Andy Clayton-King

Game 13 -- Saints at Falcons, Dec. 7: Thursday night prime time game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium will be the first of two regular-season games between the division rivals.Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.co

Game 14 -- Falcons at Buccaneers, Dec. 18: Monday night matchup in Florida could ultimately decide the winner of the NFC South.AP Photo/Jason Behnken

Game 15 -- Falcons at Saints, Dec. 24: Atlanta and New Orleans square off for the second time in 17 days, this meeting on Christmas Eve in New Orleans.AP Photo/Butch Dill

Game 16 -- Panthers at Falcons, Dec. 31: Last year's Panthers-Falcons game in Atlanta featured Deion Jones' hit on Cam Newton that resulted in a concussion for the metro Atlanta native.Scott Cunningham/Getty Images

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, at age 32, has one Super Bowl appearance under his belt and feels he is entering the prime of his already sterling career. Data suggests that 28 or 29 may be when quarterbacks...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Roger Staubach was in his 30s when he led the Dallas Cowboys to four of five Super Bowl appearances, winning two. He was 36-year-old when he last played for a championship.STF/AP

Earl Morrall, 36, was the top passer of Super Bowl V for the Baltimore Colts before he was replaced in the game by 37-year-old Johnny Unitas (19) following an injury. The two collaborated to thump the Cowboys and...AP

At 38, Earl Morrall led the undefeated Miami Dolphins, to a Super Bowl in 1972 and was the 1972 NFL Comeback Player of the Year.File

Joe Montana was 33 when he and the 49ers blew out the Broncos, 55-10, in the Super Bowl.JOHN GAPS III/AP

The Broncos' John Elway won his only two Super Bowls at age 37 and 38.Michael McCarter/AJC

Steve Young turned 33 the year he was named Super Bowl MVP, following the 49ers' 49-26 win over San Diego for the NFL title.Mike Powell/Allsport

Kurt Warner won a Super Bowl at age 28 with the St. Louis Rams in Atlanta. He returned to the big game as a 37-year-old with the Arizona Cardinals.Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

Drew Brees won his only Super Bowl with the New Orleans Saints at age 30. At 36, he led the NFL in passing yards (5,208) and passing attempts (471).Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images

Peyton Manning played in four Super Bowls while in his 30s. He won his first at age 30 with Indianapolis and his second at 39 years old with the Broncos.Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Tom Brady has seven Super Bowl appearances. Two of his five Super Bowl titles -- including the 2017 win over the Atlanta Falcons -- came after age 35.Kathy Willens/AP

Falcons QB Matt Ryan, the reigning NFL MVP, and WR Julio Jones rank in the top 10 of Pete Prisco's top NFL players of 2017. Here's a look at the entire top 10 list.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

No. 1 player on the list is Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers.Curtis Compton /ccompton@ajc.com

No. 2 on the list is Tom Brady of the Patriots. Brady, Rodgers and Ryan are the three QBs on the top 10 list.Bob Andres/AJC

The first of four defensive players in the top 10 lands at No. 3 -- Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald.Mark J. Terrill/AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill

The second defensive player -- and No. 4 overall -- on the list is Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt.AP Photo/David J. Phillip

Outside linebacker Von Miller of the Denver Broncos checks in at No. 5.AP Photo/Gregory Payan

Julio Jones lands at No. 6, one of three pass catchers (receivers and tight ends) on the list.AP file photo

No. 7 on the list is Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack.AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez

Matt Ryan, the 2016 NFL MVP, ranks eighth on the list.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

No. 9 on the list is Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown ....AP Photo/Keith Srakocic

..... and rounding out the list at No. 10 is Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski.AP Photo/Elise Amendola

Atlanta Falcons cornerbacks Desmond Trufant and Brian Poole share a laugh during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan greets running backs Devonta Freeman (left) and Tevin Coleman during the first day of minicamp  Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Falcons running back Devonta Freeman leads the way through an agility drill during the first day of minicamp Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

New Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian watches quarterback Matt Ryan's technique during the first day of minicamp Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons defensive tackles Dontari Poe (right) and Grady Jarrett walk off the field at the conclusion of the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan talks with the media after the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons safety Keanu Neal runs drills to get loose during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons cornerbacks Demond Trufant and Robert Alford take the field for the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons fullback Derrick Coleman is all smiles as he takes the ball during a kick off drill on the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. ...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Grady Jarrett and running back Devonta Freeman take the field for the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons linebacker Deion Jones gets loose running a drill during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons new offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian is off and running bringing some energy to the field for the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones gets in some work during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons linebacker DeVondre Campbell walks off the field at the conclusion of the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Atlanta Falcons center Alex Mack runs to his next set of drills during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons running back Devonta Freeman prepares for drills during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons running back B.J. Daniels runs a agility drill during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons tight end Eric Saubert (left) and fullback Derrick Coleman run a agility drill during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons linebackers LaRoy Reynolds (left) and Deion Jones finish the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons safety Keanu Neal finishes the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons offensive lineman Ryan Schraeder and Jake Matthews during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian works with rookie running back Brian Hill during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons wide receiver Devin Fuller returns a kick during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

 Falcons helmets line the field during the first day of minicamp Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons defensive lineman Taniela Tupou (left) and defensive end Chris Odom during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons wide receiver Anthony Dable, no college, from France, gives one of his coaches a hug walking off the field during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons pass rusher Vic Beasley Jr. shares a laugh with teammates taking the field for the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons wide receiver Mohamed Sanu goes up to catch a pass from Matt Ryan during the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 13, 2017, Flowery Branch: Falcons head coach Dan Quinn is looking up as he sums up the first day of mini-camp on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, owner Arthur Blank and wide receiver Roddy White share a laugh during questions from the media as Vick and White officially retire from the NFL Monday.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick pauses during his speech while being honored by the Falcons as he officially retires from the NFL on Monday, June 12, 2017, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Former Falcons wide receiver Roddy White is all smiles during his speech while being honored by the Falcons as he officially retires from the NFL as the Falcons all-time leading receiver on Monday.Curtis Compton

Former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick hugs owner Arthur Blank with former Falcons wide reciever Roddy White looking on as the franchise honored Vick and White as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday,...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick (from left), owner Arthur Blank and wide receiver Roddy White share a laugh during questions from the media as Vick and White officially retire from the NFL on Monday, June...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Falcons quarterbacks Matt Schaub (left) and Matt Ryan are in the audience while the Atlanta Falcons honor former quarterback Michael Vick and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and wide receiver Roddy White share a laugh while watching a video while being honored by the Falcons as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick is surrounded by news media with questions after the Atlanta Falcons honored Vick and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday, June 12,...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux greets former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick as he arrives to be honored by the Falcons officially retiring from the NFL on Monday, June 12, 2017, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank honors former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick (right) and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

A Michael Vick framed jersey frames the stage as the Atlanta Falcons prepare to honor former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL Monday, June 12...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Attendees snap photos of Michael Vick's framed jersey while the Atlanta Falcons honor the former Falcons quarterback and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL Monday, June 12, 2017, in...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

A framed Roddy White jersey frames the stage as the Atlanta Falcons honor the former Falcons wide receiver and quarterback Michael Vick as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday, June 12, 2017, in Atlanta...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Falcons owner Arthur Blank honors former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick (right) and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL Monday.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Former center Todd McClure introduces Michael Vick as the Atlanta Falcons honor the former Falcons quarterback and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday, June 12, 2017, in Atlanta...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Former Falcons wide reciever Brian Finneran introduces Roddy White while the Atlanta Falcons honor the all-time leading receiver and quarterback Michael Vick as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday, June...Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Michael Vick pauses during his speech while the Atlanta Falcons honor Vick and all-time wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday, June 12, 2017, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta Falcons all-time wide receiver Roddy White gets a hug from owner Arthur Blank as he officially retires from the NFL on Monday, June 12, 2017, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Michael Vick takes the podium to speak while the Atlanta Falcons honor the former Falcons quarterback and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday, June 12, 2017, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Falcons owner Arthur Blank honors former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick (right) and wide receiver Roddy White as they officially retire from the NFL on Monday, June 12, 2017, in Atlanta.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

When you go to the new Falcons’ new Mercedes-Benz Stadium you will be greeted by this 73,000-pound sculpture of a falcon. It is 41.5 feet tall and has a wingspan of more than 64 feet. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Artist Gabor MIklos Szoke strikes a pose with his stainless steel sculpture of a falcon that is 41.5 feet tall and has a wingspan of more than 64 feet. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Vistors take in the sculpture on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Visitors take in the giant falcon sculpture in the Fan Plaza during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Workers install a 73,000 pound Falcons sculpture rising 41.5 feet tall with a wingspan of over 64 feet on the main plaza outside Mercedes-Benz stadium on Thursday, April 27, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Workers continued construction around the base of the statue, hailed as the largest bird sculpture in the world on Wednesday, May 3, 2017. JOHN SPINK/JSPINK@AJC.COMJOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

Constructed by artist Gabor Miklos Szoke of Budapest, the stainless steel work captures the moment of a touchdown. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Visitors take in the giant falcon sculpture in the Fan Plaza. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

The Falcons will open Mercedes-Benz Stadium with an exhibition game Aug. 26 against the Arizona Cardinals. JOHN SPINK/JSPINK@AJC.COMJOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

Workers install a 73,000 pound falcon sculpture rising 41.5 feet tall with a wingspan of over 64 feet on the main plaza outside Mercedes-Benz stadium on Thursday, April 27, 2017. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

A visitor snaps a photo of construction showing many of seats already installed and the halo board installation beginning around the opening of the retractable roof during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Construction worker Jonathan Goalute watches over the consturction progress during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: The Atlanta skyline is seen through the floor-to-ceiling window to the city from inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Visitors take in the giant falcon sculpture in the Fan Plaza during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: A iron worker is seen at the edge of the roof as construction continues on Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Panels are beginning to be assembled that will form the giant halo board around the retractable roof inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: A worker passes by the foor-to-ceiling window to the city during a tour inside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Workers assemble and hoist panels by crane that form the giant halo board around the circumference of the retractable roof during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: A construction worker makes their way through a section of installed seats that are covered to prevent possible damage from falling debris as construction continues in Mercedes-Benz Stadium...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Artist Gabor MIklos Szoke strikes a pose with his stainless steel sculpture of a falcon that is 41.5 feet tall and has a wingspan of more than 64 feet during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: A group of lights that will light the field are seen in the ceiling of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Construction worker Jonathan Goalute watches over the consturction progress during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Enbtrances to a series of standard suites are seen at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Vistors take in a 73,000-pound sculpture of a falcon during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Thousands of newly installed are covered to prevent possible damage as construction continues on Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: A construction worker swings a sledge hammer working in a section of seats under construction inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: Visitors take in the giant falcon sculpture in the Fan Plaza during a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: A tour group is dwarfed by thousands of seats that have been installed inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

June 1, 2017, Atlanta: William Griffin works inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

The NFL wants to put some flair back into touchdown celebrations, allowing players to use the football as a prop,celebrate as a group and roll around on the ground again if they choose.. The league, however, will...Tom Pennington/Getty Images

HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Robert Alford #23 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrates after scoring a touchdown on a 82 yard interception against the New England Patriots in the second quarter during Super Bowl 51 at...Tom Pennington/Getty Images

GLENDALE, AZ - AUGUST 09: Tight end John Carlson #89 of the Arizona Cardinals celebrates with John Brown #12 after Carlson scored a 13 yard touchdown against the Houston Texans during the first quarter of the preseason...Christian Petersen/Getty Images

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 14: Odell Beckham Jr. #13 of the New York Giants celebrates after an attempted 30 yard touchdown that was nullified due to a penalty in the fourth quarter during their game against...Al Bello/Getty Images

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 14: Odell Beckham Jr. #13 of the New York Giants celebrates after an attempted 30 yard touchdown that was nullified due to a penalty in the fourth quarter during their game against...Al Bello/Getty Images

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - JANUARY 01: LeGarrette Blount #29 of the New England Patriots celebrates a touchdown during a game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Miami Gardens, Florida...Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Kelvin Benjamin #13 of the Carolina Panthers draws a celebration penalty flag after scoring a 3rd quarter touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the game at Bank of America...Grant Halverson/Getty Images

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 24: Jordan Reed #86 of the Washington Redskins celebrates after catching a touchdown pass during the fourth quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on November 24, 2016 in Arlington...Tom Pennington/Getty Images

CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 27: Odell Beckham #13 of the New York Giants celebrates his second quarter touchdown against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 27, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo...Jason Miller/Getty Images

CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 18: Jeremy Hill #32 of the Cincinnati Bengals celebrates a touchdown by balling up a "Terrible Towel" during the second quarter of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paul Brown...John Grieshop/Getty Images

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 18: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates after scoring a touchdown by jumping into a Salvation Army red kettle during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers...Tom Pennington/Getty Images

LANDOVER, MD - JANUARY 01: Tight end Jordan Reed #86 of the Washington Redskins celebrates after scoring a fourth quarter touchdown against the New York Giants at FedExField on January 1, 2017 in Landover, Maryland...Rob Carr/Getty Images

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 22: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrates after running for a 14 yard touchdown in the second quarter against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome...Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 07: DeAndre Hopkins #10 of the Houston Texans celebrates after catching a touchdown pass during the second quarter of the AFC Wild Card game against the Oakland Raiders at NRG Stadium on January...Tim Warner/Getty Images

PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 08: Antonio Brown #84 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins in the AFC Wild Card game at Heinz Field on January...Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 14: Dion Lewis #33 of the New England Patriots celebrates scoring a touchdown in the first quarter against the Houston Texans during the AFC Divisional Playoff Game at Gillette Stadium on...Elsa/Getty Images

FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 22: Chris Hogan #15 of the New England Patriots celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium...Patrick Smith/Getty Images

HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Devonta Freeman #24 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrates a 5-yard touchdown in the second quarter with teammates against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February...Patrick Smith/Getty Images

DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 1: Davante Adams #17 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates a touchdown while playing the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 1, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 10: Jameis Winston #3 and teammate Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate their 3rd quarter touchdown against the Carolina Panthers during the game at Bank of America Stadium...Grant Halverson/Getty Images

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 20: Dez Bryant #88 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates after catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Dak Prescott #4 during the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium...Tom Pennington/Getty Images

DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 16: Golden Tate #15 of the Detroit Lions celebrates in front of the cameras after scoring a touchdown during fourth quarter action against the Los Angeles Rams at Ford Field on October 16,...Leon Halip/Getty Images

DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 24: Wide receiver Demaryius Thomas #88 of the Denver Broncos celebrate a touchdown with wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders #10 in the second quarter of the game against the Houston Texans at Sports...Justin Edmonds/Getty Images

ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 30: Jason Witten #82 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates with Terrance Williams #83 of the Dallas Cowboys after scoring the game winning touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles in overtime...Tom Pennington/Getty Images

DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 1: Geronimo Allison #81 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates a touchdown while playing the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 1, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty...Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 30: Dez Bryant #88 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter during a game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium on...Tom Pennington/Getty Images

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - NOVEMBER 20: Zach Miller #86 of the Chicago Bears celebrates a touchdown against the New York Giants during their game at MetLife Stadium on November 20, 2016 in East Rutherford, New Jersey...Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - NOVEMBER 6: Golden Tate #15 of the Detroit Lions celebrates the go ahead touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings during overtime on November 6, 2016 at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota...Stacy Revere/Getty Images

CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 17: Michael Thomas #13 of the New Orleans Saints hurdles Brandon Coleman #16 in celebration after Coleman made a touchdown reception against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium...Mike Comer/Getty Images

CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 13: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers celebrates a 1st quarter touchdown run against the Kansas City Chiefs during their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Charlotte...Streeter Lecka/Getty Images