Falcons preview: 5 changes on offense

Five changes to the Falcons offense for this season:

1. The Falcons worked extensively on their vertical passing attack; look for them to pass the ball down the field more often.

2. The Falcons previously added onto their no-huddle attack in each season under offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey. The lockout botched plans for more additives, so they'll use what they have.

3. Michael Turner ran with authority and power basically on one leg last season and gained more than 1,300 yards. After undergoing offseason groin surgery, look for Turner to use his cutback lanes more often this season.

4. With teams aware they want to pass deep, the Falcons worked on the screen-and-draw attack; look for some new blitz-beater plays this season.

5. We may witness the passing of the torch at center. Todd McClure, who’s made a franchise-record 144 consecutive starts, had knee surgery on Aug. 29. Joe Hawley, who is set to make his first career start against Chicago, might not give the job back.

About the Author

Falcons coordinator Jeff Ulbrich skilled in developing players, defenses

Over his career, Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has developed linebackers into stars, like Anthony Barr, Deion Jones, De’Vondre Campbell and Foye Oluokun

James Pearce Jr. seen as Falcons’ top DROY candidate

James Pearce Jr. is seen as the Falcons' top candidate for defensive rookie of the year.

Falcons’ Michael Penix Jr. celebrated by his Florida hometown

Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is celebrated in his hometown, Dade City, Florida, with a street named for him and a new football camp for youths.

The Latest

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

Falcons coordinator Jeff Ulbrich skilled in developing players, defenses

James Pearce Jr. seen as Falcons’ top DROY candidate

Falcons’ Michael Penix Jr. celebrated by his Florida hometown

Featured

Credit: AP

Senate GOP passes budget bill Democrats describe as ‘a catastrophe’

Republicans in the U.S. Senate have passed the “big, beautiful bill” championed by President Donald Trump, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tiebreaking vote.

State Farm Arena top 5 globally in box office — behind only Sphere, MSG in U.S.

State Farm Arena brought in about $76.2 million across 60 events.

At a store that never closes, an armed comedian keeps the midnight watch

At JJ Food Mart on the west side of Atlanta, an armed comedian keeps the midnight watch. If you misbehave, Connell Daniels Jr. might put you on Instagram.