1. The Falcons let punter/kicker Michael Koenen leave via free agency, and he signed with NFC South-rival Tampa Bay. Sixth-round draft pick Matt Bosher was given the punter’s job early in training camp.
2. With Koenen gone, the Falcons also were in need of a holder for place kicks. That job will belong to Bosher. All went well during the exhibition season, but some trouble arose during a recent practice in the rain. Those are details that will have to be ironed out.
3. Look for the NFL rule change regarding kickoffs to be a big change for the Falcons. It could limit Eric Weems and could help against opposing return men.
4. With the new kickoff rule comes changes in the Falcons’ rules about when to return a kick from the end zone. One general rule is that any kick five yards deep will be downed for a touchback. However, coach Mike Smith has said hang time will play a role in the decision. Returners will have to make split-second decisions.
5. Although the exact personnel has yet to be announced, the Falcons will have new players on special teams. Linebacker Coy Wire was waived. Defensive lineman Chauncey Davis, who was part of the wedge, also was released. Rookies such as cornerback Darrin Walls, linebacker Akeem Dent and defensive end Cliff Matthews made the team in part because of their special-teams play in exhibition games.
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