FLOWERY BRANCH — Dunta Robinson’s request has been finally filled — thanks to the arrival of Asante Samuel.
With the Falcons’ offseason acquisition of four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Samuel, Robinson can move to an inside position in the nickel package — something he has been asking for since his arrival in Atlanta two seasons ago.
“We’ve had discussions about it since I’ve been here,” Robinson said Tuesday on the first day of organized team activities [OTAs]. “With Asante coming in, then it was a no-brainer.
“A lot of corners can’t move from outside to inside. A lot of guys don’t like going in there. It’s been one of my strong suits since I’ve stepped onto the football field. I’ve kind of been away from it, especially the previous two years that I’ve been here. I’m excited to go back inside now that I know there is nothing to worry about on the outside.”
Robinson said he was told by the coaching staff he would remain on the outside “for personnel reasons” after previous requests. He played inside with the Texans before joining the Falcons as a free agent. Since his arrival, he has played almost exclusively at right cornerback. Subject to change, Robinson worked as the starting right cornerback in the base defense Tuesday with Samuel on the sideline. Robinson moved to the inside, with Samuel at right cornerback, in the nickel package.
Roster news
Sam Baker was at left tackle and Garrett Reynolds at right guard along the starting offensive line during drills Tuesday. Tyson Clabo (right tackle), Todd McClure (center) and Justin Blaylock (left guard) rounded out the unit.
The second line consisted of Andrew Jackson (RT), Vince Manuwai (RG), Joe Hawley (C), Mike Johnson (LG) and Will Svitek (LT).
On the third line were Peter Konz (RG), Tyler Horn (C), Phillip Manley (LG) and Bryce Harris (LT). Third-round draft pick Lamar Holmes did not participate because of broken toes on his left foot. He watched drills while wearing a walking boot. Holmes also missed rookie camp earlier this month with the injury.
Lofa Tatupu worked with the first-team defense at middle linebacker.
Near full house
The Falcons had nearly every player on their roster at the first day of non-mandatory OTAs on Tuesday. The absences included defensive end John Abraham and tight end Tony Gonzalez. Coach Mike Smith said both were working out away from team facilities. Tight end Michael Palmer is on a mission trip to Serbia.
Several other players were in attendance but did not practice because of injury. In addition to Holmes, linebacker Stephen Nicholas, defensive tackles Corey Peters and Vance Walker and long snapper Joe Zelenka were held out.
Numeral changes
Several Falcons changed uniform numbers. Curtis Lofton is gone, and No. 50 is worn by linebacker Robert James.
Samuel was wearing his usual No. 22, which once belonged to Jacquizz Rodgers. The running back gave up the number, as a gift to a veteran, and wears No. 32. Fullback Bradie Ewing wears No. 34 after he participated in rookie camp wearing No. 36.
Etc.
Wide receiver Julio Jones is sporting a new look. Gone are the dreadlocks, replaced with a close-cropped hair cut. ... Fifth-round draft pick defensive end Jonathan Massaquoi, who participated Tuesday, remains the only member of the 2012 draft class unsigned. ... Brent Grimes, Harry Douglas, Dominique Franks and James Rodgers worked on kick returns as the Falcons search for a replacement for Eric Weems.
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