Atlanta Falcons News | NFL | Main Page

Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant celebrates a 34-23 victory over the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers lays on the ground after a hard tackle by Falcons Adrian Clayborn during the fourth quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers greet each other after the Falcons beat the Packers 34-23 in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons running back Devonta Freeman scores a touchdown for a 14-7 lead over the Packers during the second quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. ...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons head coach Dan Quinn greets Packers head coach Mike McCarty after defeating the Packers 34-23 in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons cornerback Brian Poole (left) and safety Keanu Neal double team Packers tight end Martellus Bennett for the stop during the second half in a NFL football game on Sunday, September...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Falcons Atlanta Falcons guard Wes Schweitzer, Atlanta Falcons tight end Levine Toilolo, Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones and Atlanta Falcons center Alex Mack celebrate Atlanta...Curtis Compton/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons defensive end Brooks Reed, Atlanta Falcons linebacker Duke Riley, and Atlanta Falcons linebacker Deion Jones , can't prevent this first quarter TD by Green Bay Packers running...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones makes one of his first drive catches to set up Atlanta's first TD. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the...Curtis Compton/bandres@ajc.com

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan makes a first down pass against the Packers during a second half scoring drive in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons running back Devonta Freeman celebrates his touchdown with Mohamed Sanu for a 14-7 lead over the Packers during the second quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons running back Devonta Freeman scores a touchdown for a 14-7 lead over the Packers during the second quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. ...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones makes one of his first drive catches to set up Atlanta's first TD. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the...Curtis Compton/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons safety Keanu Neal breaks up a pass intended for Green Bay Packers tight end Martellus Bennett in the first quarter. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons...Curtis Compton/bandres@ajc.com

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falconsrunning back Tevin Coleman scores a touchdown for a 24-7 lead over the Packers during the second quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons defensive end Brooks Reed sacks Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers during the second quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons linebacker Vic Beasley Jr. shares words with Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers after forcing a incomplete pass during the second quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons wide receiver Mohamed Sanu makes a first down catch against Packers Damarious Randall during the second quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones runs after a first half catch for a first down. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the Falcons season opener...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan tries to hit Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones in this first half pass. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman scores on this Matt Ryan pass near the end of the first half. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the Falcons...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (left) and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan high five after Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman scored a first half TD. Atlanta Falcons...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons linebacker De'Vondre Campbell breaks up a second half pass intended for Green Bay Packers tight end Richard Rodgers . Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons safety Brian Poole celebrates as the final Green Bay pass intended for Green Bay Packers wide receiver Geronimo Allison is broken up by Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons defensive end Adrian Clayborn hits Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers as he throws. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman on a 2nd half run. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the Falcons season opener at Mecedes-Benz Stadium...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons linebacker Duke Riley (from left) Atlanta Falcons safety Ricardo Allen and Atlanta Falcons safety Brian Poole stack up Green Bay Packers running back Ty Montgomery during...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan pass attempt during the 2nd half. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the Falcons season opener at Mecedes-Benz...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan hands off to Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman in the second half. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons linebacker Deion Jones and Atlanta Falcons linebacker De'Vondre Campbell celebrate during the 2nd half. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons safety Keanu Neal body slams Packers tight end Martellus Bennett for the stop during the second half in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons running back Devonta Freeman picks up extra yardage against Packers Davon House and Clay Matthews during the fourth quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons defensive end Adrian Clayborn sacks Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers for a loss during the third quarter in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. The...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons head coach Dan Quinn encourages his defense during the fourth quarter on the way to a 34-23 victory over the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Packers wide receiver Davante Adams makes a long touchdown catch against the Falcons during the second half in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 - ATLANTA - Aerials of the new Falcons Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Sunday, September 17, 2017. The roof of the stadium is opened for the first time. (Akili-Casundria Ramsess/Eye of Ramsess...Akili-Casundria Ramsess/Akili-Casundria Ramsess

Aerials of the new Falcons Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Sunday, September 17, 2017. The roof of the stadium is opened for the first time. (Akili-Casundria Ramsess/Eye of Ramsess Media)Akili-Casundria Ramsess/Akili-Casundria Ramsess

September 17, 2017 - ATLANTA - Aerials of the new Falcons Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Sunday, September 17, 2017. The roof of the stadium is opened for the first time. (Akili-Casundria Ramsess/Eye of Ramsess...Akili-Casundria Ramsess/Akili-Casundria Ramsess

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Colton Holder, Snellville, waves his cap beneath the open roof of Mercedes-Benz Stadium as the Falcons prepare to play the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Atlanta Falcons fan Mike Castellana, left, poses for a photo with Green Bay Packers fans Kelly Maloney, center, and Lindsay Robdrup before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Green Bay Packers...Branden Camp

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons players enter the field for pregame warmups. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the Falcons season opener at Mecedes-Benz Stadium. ...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Fans gather outside of Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

A man plays corn hole outside of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

Atlanta Falcons fan Jack McGinnis gets his face painted before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

Brannu Fulton rides his horse outside of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

A Green Bay Packers fan walks outside of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

Fans gather outside of Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

A man throws a football outside of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

Green Bay Packers fans Fred Jones, left, and Sherrea Jones take a selfie in front of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017...Branden Camp

A Green Bay Packers fan waits outside of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

Fans arrive at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Atlanta. BRANDEN CAMP/SPECIALBranden Camp

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Arthur Blank hugs his step daughter, Emily Mcuga, who was with Atlanta United's Josef Martinez (right) during pregame warmups. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Governor Nathan Deal and his wife, Sandra, depart the field ahead of Arthur Blank and Frank Poe after the ribbon cutting on the field. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Green Bay fan Lee Shell, Hickory, N.C., and Atlanta Falcons fan Travis Braun, Flowery Branch, arrive for the Falcons home opener against the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday,...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Arthur Blank cuts the ribbon for the Falcons opener, with Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and Gov. Nathan Deal. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the Falcons...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Players take the field pre-game. Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the Falcons season opener at Mecedes-Benz Stadium. CURTIS COMPTON / CCOMPTON@AJC...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Ben Mathis snaps a photo of the open roof at Mercedes-Benz Stadium as the Falcons prepare to play the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Sonia Faircloth and Damian Benko, Atlanta, salute their home team as the Falcons prepare to play the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

9/17/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons vs Green Bay Packers. The Falcons opened the roof for the Falcons season opener at Mecedes-Benz Stadium. CURTIS COMPTON / CCOMPTON@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Packers fans Dallas Pennington (from left), Seth White, and Dillon Byrd sport green for their team as the Falcons prepare to play the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday, September...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Julio Jones and the Falcons take the field as they prepare to play the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.comccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

September 17, 2017 Atlanta: Matt Williams, Atlanta, and his sister Leanne Ganes, Denver, have opposite allegiances as the Falcons prepare to play the Packers in a NFL football game on Sunday, September 17, 2017...ccompton@ajc.com/Curtis Compton

Denver Broncos inside linebacker Brandon Marshall (54) greets Denver Nuggets forward Paul Millsap prior to an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Monday, Sept. 11, 2017, in Denver. Millsap spent...David Zalubowski/AP

Professional wrestler Bill Goldberg greets Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller prior to an Monday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Goldberg played football at the University of Georgia and went...Jack Dempsey/AP

Professional wrestler Bill Goldberg greets Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller prior to an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers Monday. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)Jack Dempsey/AP

Denver Broncos inside linebacker Brandon Marshall (54) greets Denver Nuggets forward Paul Millsap prior to an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers Monday. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)David Zalubowski/AP

Paul Millsap of the Denver Nuggets watches the Denver Broncos warm up before the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado Monday. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty...Justin Edmonds/Getty Images

We’ve scoured over 500 images from the Falcons’ 23-17 win over the Bears Sunday in Chicago and we’ve come up with what we think are the 10 best photos. First is this shot of the Falcons’ Brooks Reed slamming into...Michael Conroy/AP

You lost a lead too: The were plenty of Falcons fans at the game in Chicago. The fan with the sign on the left is making fun of the Patriots, who blew this lead in their loss to the Chiefs. New England did the same...Michael Conroy/AP

Big play from big man: Falcons tight end Austin Hooper pushes the Bears’ Quintin Demps away on Hooper’s long fourth-quarter touchdown.David Banks/Getty Images

Sharp-dressed Ryan: Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan walks off the podium after a news conference after the game. Michael Conroy/AP

Bust a move: Falcons receiver Taylor Gabriel eludes Jerrell Freeman of the Chicago Bears.Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

Happy days: Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (top) celebrates with Austin Hooper after combining on a long touchdown in the fourth quarter.David Banks/Getty Images

Unstoppable: Bears strong safety Quintin Demps can only watch as Falcons running back Devonta Freeman runs downfield.Michael Conroy/AP

Rising to the occasion: Brooks Reed (50) and Vic Beasley (44) celebrate after sacking quarterback Mike Glennon of the Chicago Bears.David Banks/Getty Images

Ryan on the run: He’s known for his passing but Falcons QB Matt Ryan shows he can run a bit too in the first half. Nam Y. Huh/AP

Ecstasy and agony: Brooks Reed (50) of the Falcons sprints off the field after sacking Mike Glennon of the Chicago Bears to sew up the win. Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

There are approximately 135 NFL players from Georgia. Here’s how several of them fared in Week 1 of the 2017 regular season.Tim Warner/Getty Images

Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Vic Beasley (44) sacks Chicago Bears quarterback Mike Glennon (8). Beasley, from Adairsville, played at Clemson before being drafted by the Falcons. He had two tackles and a sack...Nam Y. Huh/AP

Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry receives attention on the field after an injury during the second half against the New England Patriots. Berry, from Creekside and the University of Tennessee, was lost for the...Michael Dwyer/AP

Green Bay Packers' Morgan Burnett (42) tackles Seattle Seahawks' Jimmy Graham (88) Sunday. Burnett is from North Clayton and Georgia Tech. He finished with four tackles, three solo, and a pass defensed in the Packers’...Jeffrey Phelps/AP

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Chris Conley (17) catches a pass in front of New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler (21) on Thursday. Conley is from North Paulding and UGA. He had two catches for 43 yards...Steven Senne/AP

Isaiah Crowell (34) of the Cleveland Browns is tackled by Stephon Tuitt (91) of the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday. Crowell is from Columbus and played at UGA before Alabama State. He rushed 17 times for 33 yards in...Justin K. Aller/Getty Images

Detroit Lions linebacker Jarrad Davis (40) celebrates his interception of a Arizona Cardinals' Carson Palmer pass Sunday. Davis is from Camden County and played at Florida. He had nine tackles. (AP Photo/Jose Juarez)Jose Juarez/AP

New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) warms up prior to a game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday. Engram is from Hillgrove and Mississippi. He had four catches for 44 yards, including a 31-yard reception, in...Michael Ainsworth/AP

Gerald Everett (81) of the Los Angeles Rams catches a pass against Jon Bostic (57) of the Indianapolis Colts Sunday. Everett is from Columbia and South Carolina. He had one catch for 39 yards in the Rams’ 46-9...Jeff Gross/Getty Images

Chicago Bears linebacker Leonard Floyd (94) chases Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) Sunday. Floyd is from Dodge County and UGA. He had with four tackles, one solo and one for a loss. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)Michael Conroy/AP

Los Angeles Rams middle linebacker Alec Ogletree (52) blocks a pass by Indianapolis Colts quarterback Scott Tolzien Sunday. Olgetree is from Newnan and UGA. He had four tackles, three solo, and a pass defensed in...Alex Gallardo/AP

Buffalo Bills' Mike Tolbert (35) rushes against the New York Jets Sunday. Tolbert is from Douglas County and Coastal Carolina. He had 12 carries for 42 yards and a touchdown in the Bills’ 21-12 win. (AP Photo/Adrian...Adrian Kraus/AP

Deshaun Watson (4) of the Houston Texans throws a pass under pressure by Myles Jack (44) of the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday. Watson is from Gainesville and Clemson. The rookie entered in the third quarter and completed...Tim Warner/Getty Images

Austin Hooper (81) of the Atlanta Falcons carries the football toward the end zone against Quintin Demps (21) of the Chicago Bears in the fourth quarter at Soldier Field on September 10, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois...David Banks/Getty Images

Atlanta Falcons tight end Austin Hooper (81) celebrates a touchdown with teammate Mohamed Sanu (12) during the second half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Chicago. (AP...Nam Y. Huh/AP

Chicago Bears quarterback Mike Glennon (8) gets sacked by Atlanta Falcons defensive end Brooks Reed (50) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)Nam Y. Huh/AP

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) calls a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)Nam Y. Huh/AP

Chicago Bears quarterback Mike Glennon (8) scrambles during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)Nam Y. Huh/AP

Chicago Bears quarterback Mike Glennon (8) gets sacked by Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Vic Beasley (44) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)Nam Y. Huh/AP

Quarterback Matt Ryan (2) of the Atlanta Falcons carries the football ahead of Willie Young (97) of the Chicago Bears in the second quarter at Soldier Field on September 10, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo...David Banks/Getty Images

Deion Jones (45) of the Atlanta Falcons attempts to tackle Tarik Cohen (29) of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at Soldier Field on September 10, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by David Banks/Getty Images)David Banks/Getty Images

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) passes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)Michael Conroy/AP

Chicago Bears outside linebacker Sam Acho (93) reacts to a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)Michael Conroy/AP

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) celebrates a touchdown with running back Devonta Freeman (24) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Chicago...Nam Y. Huh/AP

Head coach Dan Quinn of the Atlanta Falcons stands on the sidelines during the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on September 10, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by David Banks/Getty Images)David Banks/Getty Images

A stealth bomber flys over Soldier Field prior to the start of the game between the Chicago Bears and the Atlanta Falcons on September 10, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by David Banks/Getty Images)David Banks/Getty Images

No. 19 -- Andre Roberts, wide receiver. Roberts, a 2010 third-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals, has played with the Cardinals, Redskins and Lions. He will be Falcons' primary kick returner. Last Falcons to wear...David Goldman/AP

No. 25 -- Brian Hill, running back. Hill was a fifth-round pick out of Wyoming by the Falcons in 2017. He is still learning how to attack the line of scrimmage in the Falcons’ outside-zone running scheme. Last Falcon...Al Messerschmidt/AP

No. 27 -- Damontae Kazee, cornerback. The Falcons drafted Kazee out of San Diego State in the fifth round of this year’s draft. Kazee, who played corner in college, is expected to also see time at free safety. Last...Wilfredo Lee/AP

No. 40 -- Derrick Coleman, fullback. The Falcons signed Coleman as a free agent in March. He has played in 31 games for Seattle. Last Falcon to wear it: Mike Cox, fullback.Curtis Compton/ccoompton@ajc.om

No. 42 -- Dukey Riley, linebacker. The Falcons drafted Riley in the third round of the 2017 draft out of LSU. Last Falcon to wear it: Patrick DiMarco, fullback.John Bazemore/AP

No. 56 -- Jermaine Grace, linebacker. The Falcons signed Grace as an undrafted free agent in April. He played college football at Miami. Last Falcon to wear it: Sean Weatherspoon, linebacker.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

No. 68 -- Austin Pasztor, offensive tackle. Pasztor was signed in the preseason after appearing in 58 NFL games with the Vikings, Jaguars and Brown since 2012. Pasztor has previously worn No. 67 that guard Andy...Sam Greenwood/Getty Images

No. 74 -- Ty Sambrailo, offensive tackle. The Falcons acquired Sambrailo from the Broncos in a preseason trade. The former second-round pick was added to provide depth at tackle. Last Falcons to wear it: Joey Mbu...Scott Halleran/Getty Images

No. 85 -- Eric Saubert, tight end. The Falcons drafted Saubert in the fifth round of the 2017 draft out of Drake. Last Falcons to wear it: Leonard Hankerson, wide receiver.Damian Strohmeyer/AP

No. 92 -- Dontari Poe, defensive tackle. Free-agent addition in offseason, Falcons' new defensive lineman was a two-time Pro Bowl selection with the Kansas City Chiefs. Last Falcons to wear it: Travian Robertson...Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

No. 95 -- Jack Crawford, defensive tackle. The Falcons added the 2012 fifth-round pick in free agency. Crawford has previously played for the Raiders and Cowboys. Last Falcon to wear it: Jonathan Babineaux, defensive...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

No. 98 -- Takkarist Mckinley, defensive end. The Falcons drafted McKinley with their 2017 first-round pick out of UCLA. Last Falcon to wear it: Cliff Matthews, defensive lineman.Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan - the reigning league MVP -- received a five-year $103.7-million deal that runs from 2014 to 2018.Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

Cam Newton was signed by the Carolina Panthers to a contract extension worth $103.8 million over five years that runs from 2015 to 2019.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ $110 million, five-year deal ends in 2019.David Barnes/AJC

Miami Dolphins signed defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh to a six-year, $114-million contract prior to the 2015 season.Harry How/Getty Images

Broncos defensive tackle Von Miller was signed to a six-year deal worth $114.5 million following Denver’s 2015 Super Bowl win.Harry How/Getty Images

Following his 2014 Pro Bowl season, the Bengals signed quarterback Andy Dalton to a $115 million, six-year deal.Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald originally signed an eight-year, $120-million deal that has been restructured. He has agreed to multiple extensions to stave off retirement.Norm Hall/Getty Images

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco is playing through a six-year deal worth $120.6 million. In 2016, he agreed to a three-year extension, worth $66.4 million, that keeps him with Baltimore through 2021.Justin K. Aller/Getty Images

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck is now in entering the second year of a six-year, $139.1-million contract.Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Oakland Raiders gave quarterback Derek Carr a five-year, $125 million contract to start the 2017 season.Tom Pennington/Getty Images

Detroit Lions and quarterback Matthew Stafford have agreed on a contract extension worth $135 million through the 2022 season. Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Josh Magee (7) runs into the end zone for a Falcons score during the 4th quarter on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium and pre-season NFL...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

Arizona Cardinals running back Chris Johnson (23) (left) gets pushed out of bounds by Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford (23) (right) during the 1st quarter on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Falcons head coach Dan Quinn directing traffic on the sidelines during the 2nd quarter on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium and pre-season NFL...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons cornerback C.J. Goodwin (29) breaks up a pass intended for Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Chad Williams (16) in the second half. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium ...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

August 26, 2017 Atlanta - Atlanta Falcons fans cheer before an exhibition game against the Arizona Cardinals at the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, August 26, 2017. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COMHYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) works against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)John Bazemore/AP

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Falcons owner Arthur Blank greets head coach Dan Quinn after the game. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) hands off to Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman (26) on the Falcons first offensive series. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Arizona Cardinals quarterback Drew Stanton (5) (left) gets sacked by Atlanta Falcons defensive end Jack Crawford (95) (right) during 2nd quarter action on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Arizona Cardinals quarterback Drew Stanton (5) (left) gets sacked by Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Ra'Shede Hageman (77) (right) during 2nd quarter action on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

ATLANTA, GA - AUGUST 26: Markus Golden #44 of the Arizona Cardinals forces a fumble as he sacks Matt Schaub #8 of the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on August 26, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by...Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) hands off to Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman (26). The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) works against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/David Goldman)David Goldman/AP

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Arizona Cardinals free safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) picks up the Falcons loose ball during the 1st quarter on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Atlanta Falcons cornerback Jalen Collins (32) (left) snags Arizona Cardinals tight end Jermaine Gresham (84) during 2nd quarter action on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons offensive guard Ben Garland (63). The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game.. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Schaub (8). The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game.. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - General Manager Thomas Dimitroff. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game.. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Josh Magee (7) runs into the end zone for a Falcons score during the 4th quarter on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Drew Stanton (5) works on tackling Atlanta Falcons defensive end Takkarist McKinley (98) after McKinley received a fumble during the first half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Aug...David Goldman/AP

Atlanta Falcons defensive end Takkarist McKinley (98) sits on the bench during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)John Bazemore/AP

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons defensive end Takkarist McKinley (98) and Atlanta Falcons defensive end Jack Crawford (95) pressure the Cardinal's QB. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons defensive end Takkarist McKinley (98) recovers a fumble. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons offensive guard Ben Garland (63) hands off to Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Schaub (8). The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Coach Dan Quinn leads his team off the field at the half. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game.. BOB ANDRES...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Atlanta Falcons strong safety Kemal Ishmael (36) (left) can't hold onto Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Jaron Brown (13) (right) during 2nd quarter action on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Nick Williams (15). The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game.. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Arizona Cardinals running back Chris Johnson (23) can't hold on to the ball during 1st quarter action on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium and...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Falcons players take the field for the first time in uniform for pregame warmups. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Falcon head coach Dan Quinn takes the field as players run through a gauntlet of cheerleaders and fireworks. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

August 26, 2017 Atlanta - Atlanta Falcons punter Matt Bosher (5) kicks off to start their exhibition game against the Arizona Cardinals at the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, August 26, 2017. HYOSUB SHIN...HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Atlanta Falcons defensive back Sharrod Neasman (20) (left) pulls down Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Jeremy Ross (15) (center) with Atlanta Falcons linebacker Jermaine Grace (56)(right)...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Arizona Cardinals defensive back Ironhead Gallon (47) (left) ends up Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Anthony Dable (16) (center) Arizona Cardinals defensive back Tramon Williams (37) (right)...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) runs off the field following the loss to the Cardinals on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium and pre-season...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Arizona Cardinals running back James Summers (45) sees daylight during 3rd quarter action on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium and pre-season...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Nick Williams (15) (below) is upended by Arizona Cardinals running back Chris Johnson (23) (top-center) as Atlanta Falcons tight end Eric Saubert (85) (right)...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Falcons players take the field for the first time in uniform for pregame warmups. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons linebacker Jermaine Grace (56), Atlanta Falcons defensive back Sharrod Neasman (20) pursue Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Jeremy Ross (15) in the second half. The first...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons cornerback C.J. Goodwin (29) recovers a fumble in the second half with help from Atlanta Falcons defensive back Marcelis Branch (35). The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons cornerback Jalen Collins (32) can't prevent this touchdown by Arizona Cardinals running back James Summers (45). The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Simms (4). The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game.. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC.COMBob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Arizona Cardinals linebacker Alex Bazzie (54)(left) and Arizona Cardinals defensive back Ironhead Gallon (47)(right) bring down Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) (center) during...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

August 26, 2017 Atlanta: Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Kevin Graf (66) hurt during the 3rd quarter on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at the opening of the brand new Mercedes Benz Stadium and pre-season NFL game between...JOHN SPINK / AJC/JOHN SPINK / AJC

8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Falcons take the field as the game gets underway. The first game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium was Saturday, as the Atlanta Falcons played Arizona in an exhibition game.. BOB ANDRES /BANDRES@AJC...Bob Andres/bandres@ajc.com

Aerial view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium before the Atlanta Falcons' opening game against the Arizona Cardinals Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta.Akili-Casundria Ramsess/For the AJC

Thousands of Falcons fans stream by “Rise UP’ sculpture and into Mercedes-Benz Stadium hours before the stadium’s opening game, an exhibition game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta...Akili-Casundria Ramsess/For the AJC

Detail view of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s roof before the Falcons’ opening game against the Arizona Cardinals Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta.Akili-Casundria Ramsess/For the AJC

Aerial view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium before the Atlanta Falcons' opening game against the Arizona Cardinals Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta. The Georgia Dome, the Falcons’ former home of 20 years, will be imploded...Akili-Casundria Ramsess/For the AJC

Aerial view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium before the Atlanta Falcons' opening game against the Arizona Cardinals Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta.Akili-Casundria Ramsess/For the AJC

Aerial view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium before the Atlanta Falcons' opening game against the Arizona Cardinals Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Atlanta. The Georgia Dome, the Falcons’ former home of 20 years, will be imploded...Akili-Casundria Ramsess/For the AJC

Whoa there!

Thanks for verifying your email address

Please confirm the information below before signing in.

NEWS BLOGS

IN THE NEWS

SPORTS BLOGS

IN THE NEWS

COUNTY NEWS

IN THE NEWS

FIND IT

IN THE NEWS

Blogs

In the News

Today's Buzz

Inside AJC

Atlanta Falcons

Weather and Traffic

NFL news

NFL news

NFL Standings

In the news

Blogs

NFL news

NFL Standings

Things To Do

Falcons videos

Gallery Title

More from ajc.com

Whoa there!

Thanks for verifying your email address

Sign in using your AJC.com profile

Sign in using your existing account

Sign in using your AJC.com profile

Sign in using your existing account

Sign in using your AJC.com profile

Sign in using your existing account

Please confirm the information below before signing in.

It looks like you are already verified. If you still have trouble signing in, you probably need a new confirmation link email.

Log in to Manage yourProfile and Account

Atlanta Falcons

In the news

Weather and Traffic

NFL news

NFL news

NFL Standings

In the news

Blogs

NFL news

NFL Standings

Things To Do

Falcons videos

Gallery Title

More from ajc.com

Log in to Manage your
Profile and Account