FLOWERY BRANCH — Falcons rookie linebacker Troy Andersen, who was drafted in the second round (58th overall) out of Montana State, made his debut against the Jets on Monday night.

Anderson played 32 defensive snaps (56%) and had two tackles and a quarterback hit.

“Like most rookies, there are things he can clean up,” Falcons coach Arthur Smith said. “It wasn’t a lack of effort. You saw him do some things and flash. It was his first time out there. Like, always there are things to clean up.”

Troy Andersen’s draft bio

Second round (58th overall) – Troy Andersen, Montana State

Height: 6-3 ½ Weight: 243 Overview: Ran the 40-yard dash in 4.42 seconds. He started games at quarterback, running back and linebacker for Montana State and was an All-Big Sky Conference QB as a sophomore. He made all-conference as an inside linebacker and an outside linebacker in separate seasons. This past season, he recorded 147 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss, two sacks, nine passes deflected and two interceptions. He was a unanimous All-American, Big Sky Conference Defensive Player of the Year, first-team All-Big Sky and the team captain. He was chosen national FCS Defensive Player of the Year by several outlets.

The Bow Tie Chronicles

About the Author

Keep Reading

After rushing for 24 yards on 12 carries in the season-opening loss to the Buccaneers, Falcons running back Bijan Robinson ran for 143 yards on 22 carries against the Vikings on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, in Minneapolis. (Mike Stewart/AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com