FLOWERY BRANCH -- The Falcons went through their last practice Wednesday before the exhibition opener Friday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The team will have Thursday off before facing the Titans on Friday. A.J. McCarron likely will play most of the first half at quarterback, and rookie Feleipe Franks should get most of the QB reps in the second half.
Things started out slowly Wednesday with a walk-through, and the action ramped up over the two-hour practice. You could here the pads popping in the run-game portion of practice.
Here are the five things we learned:
1. Ollison in yellow. Running back Qadree Ollison was in a yellow jersey (limited contact) for the second day. Defenders were allowed to tag him down, but not hit him.
2. McGary and Fowler update: Right tackle Kaleb McGary is working his way back from the PUP list stint. He worked some with the first-team offense. Willie Beavers is listed at the No. 1 right tackle.
Outside linebacker Dante Fowler is working his way back after his stint on the reserve/COVID-19 list. He also spent some time with the first-team defense. Steven Means is listed as the No. 1 outside linebacker ahead of Fowler.
3. Rowland update: Wide receiver Chris Rowland has to run stronger on his crossing routes. He went to the ground after getting bumped, and the pass intended for him went into the waiting arms of safety Dwayne Johnson.
4. Secondary watch: Cornerback Kendall Sheffield was not at practice. He is listed as the third right cornerback behind Fabian Moreau and Chris Williamson. Also, safety T.J. Green was moved to corner and was doing a good job.
5. Stars of training camp. Wide receiver Russell Gage, safety Jaylinn Hawkins and outside linebacker Adetokunbo Ogundeji have been impressive in training camp this far.
(Check back later on AJC.com for notes and a story on prized rookie tight end Kyle Pitts.)
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