Falcons defensive lineman Tyson Jackson is no rookie, but that doesn’t stop him from relishing the start of minicamp.
“No matter if you are a rookie or a vet, you’re coming in to train,” Jackson said Tuesday. “You got to come in everyday with the mindset to put your best foot forward and try to get better at something each and every day.”
During the first day of the mandatory minicamp, Jackson was trying something new. He was working with the defensive tackles in individual drills.
Jackson spent eight seasons at defensive end. Last season, he collected 31 tackles in 12 starts at the spot. But, heading into his third season with the Falcons, he is making the transition to defensive tackle.
“When you are playing that spot we want a little more rush at that position,” Falcons coach Dan Quinn said. “He has worked hard, his weight is down and he looks fit. That versatility is where we are heading with Tyson.”
Jackson, who was the third player taken in the 2009 draft by the Chiefs, isn’t known for his pass rush. So, with only nine career sacks, Jackson spent all offseason trying to perfect his technique.
“This entire OTA’s I’ve been working with (defensive line coach Brian) Cox and (Dan Quinn) to continue to try and better my pass rush,” Jackson said. “Even if it doesn’t end up in sacks, it could end up in knocked down passes or getting the quarterback off the spot.”
During team sessions, Jackson’s work has shown. He was able to rush effectively from the inside and showed good leverage against Falcons center Alex Mack. On one play, Jackson was able to force the quarterback into a check down. He also displayed better hand placement to shed blockers on running downs.
Offensive guard Mike Person noticed his play. He thought the defensive line’s play was different from last season.
“I think they are more comfortable with their scheme so they can now really fly around and play ball,” Person said. “From day one last year to day one this year, it is night and day.”
One reason for this difference is a new defensive mindset. Quinn wants his defensive players to “gain the last yard.” This means he wants them to finish plays through the whistle.
“Gaining the last yard is about the finish,” Quinn said. “It is how can you do that last yard better than the next guy. For us, we just try to find different ways to pull it out of guys.”
The concept has resonated with Jackson. He believes that it has helped him be more physical at his new position.
“With defense you got to be fast and nasty,” Jackson said. “Everything else will take care of itself. We are all about the ball around here. That is our No. 1 goal going into each practice and game.”
Jackson knows the work isn’t done. He acknowledges needing more individual work as the offseason progresses. But he is happy with how far he has come.
“I just want (to make) a real impact on the field,” Jackson said. “I want to be one of those guys that the team counts on day in and day out. I just want to continue to improve my game throughout the season.”
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