FLOWERY BRANCH — Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks saw his most extensive action in the NFL on Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings.
With nickel back Kelvin Hayden inactive and Brent Grimes able to play only six plays, Franks found himself on the field for 58 plays.
It was a minor surprise that he opened the game at nickel back over Christopher Owens, who had been the starter at that spot.
Franks dazzled the coaching staff with strong practices during the exhibition season, but faltered in the exhibition games. When the season started, he continued to practice at a high level.
With Grimes likely out for two to three weeks, Franks will now get an extended opportunity to transfer his practice play to the games.
“The big thing is, he’s got to go out, relax and play,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said. “He hasn’t had a whole of experience in doing that up to this point in time.”
In a Q&A with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Franks discussed his role, his preparation for Houston and earning the veterans’ respect.
Q: How did it go last week against the Vikings?
A: I think it went good. I was kind of nervous for my first NFL real game like that besides getting in there my rookie year at the end of the games. I was just trying to prepare as well as I could. I think I did pretty well for my first game.
Q: How many snaps did you get?
A: I played 58 snaps.
Q: What was it like?
A: It was a great feeling. I was able to get a couple of plays under my belt. I was able to relax and really focus on my techniques and what I needed to do.
Q: Will a week of preparation knowing that you are going to play help?
A: Once you sit up and listen in the meetings and then go out and practice, that makes it a little bit easier when you have to go into the game because you feel a little bit more comfortable taking snaps and also getting the film study and such.
Q: What will you be thinking on the first play of the game if Andre Johnson shows up on your side of the field?
A: Oh, man! I'll just look at the formation and try to figure out what they are going to try to run and do the best that I can do. He's probably one of the best receivers in the league. I'm just going out and playing the best way that I can to help this team win.
Q: Do you feel that you are earning the veterans’ respect?
A: I definitely do. There are a lot of guys on this team that have been in the league for a long time. They have my utmost respect. They've been in all of the wars. I think for a guy like me coming in, they know I can play because they've seen me in practice. Now, it's just a matter of going out there and doing whatever I do in practice on the game field. I have to show everybody what those guys see. ...
Q: Has Dunta Robinson, your fellow starting cornerback, given you any advice?
A: Yes. He said just go out there and play. Don't overdo it. Don't over think it. If I have any questions just asked him. For the most part, I do my studying and then just go out there and play. Do what I've been doing.
