Falcons defensive line coach Bryan Cox has been impressed with the results from UFC/mixed martial arts training by defensive tackle Ra’Shede Hageman and defensive end Tyson Jackson.
Both went to California this summer work with Jay Glazer.
“The biggest thing was to get their weight down,” Cox said. “When you talk about it Tyson was the number (three) pick in his class when he came out and he was about 290, 295.”
The Falcons were hoping that by losing some weight that Jackson and Hageman would improve their mobility.
“The movement skills are what we were looking for,” Cox said. “(Jackson) looks quicker. He looks more conditioned and ready to play now.”
Hageman also appears to be in much better shape.
“The same can be said for Ra’Shede,” Cox said. “They’ve taken it seriously and they’ve done what we’ve asked them to do. They’ve come back ready to work.”
The mixed martial arts training should also help the defensive linemen with their hand placement.
“It’s the same a boxing,” Cox said. “Anytime that you can get the hands off your chest, trying to get the hands out of your face, grabbing their wrists, some of those moves will definitely help us.”
