FLOWERY BRANCH — Falcons rookie defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, who been solid in a rotational role since Week 8, will get more playing time with Paul Soliai (calf) declared out of the game by coach Dan Quinn on Friday.

Also, kicker Matt Bryant (quadriceps) will miss his third game and Shayne Graham, who’s five-of-five, will hand the field goal kicking.

“It’s a really cool opportunity for him with Paul being out,” Quinn said. “We’re all excited for Grady to do it.”

Wide receiver Julio Jones (knee), guard Chris Chester (shoulder, knee) tight end Tony Moeaki (hamstring), Devin Hester (toe) and tight end Jacob Tamme (shoulder) were also on the injury report, but are expected to play.

Jarrett has a plus-8.9 rating this season and currently rates 17th among all defensive tackles, according to profootballfocus.com.

“”Nothing has changed,” Jarrett said. “I’m not making nothing up. I just do what I do. I just feel that I’m getting more comfortable and it’s leading to me playing better.”

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, here speaking to the media in January, has two 2025 first-round draft picks on his defense in Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. (Jason Getz/AJC)

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

Featured

The city of Brookhaven's mayor and City Council last week decided to remove the colored panes of glass from the dome of Brookhaven's new City Centre after residents objected to the brightness of the colors, seen here Friday, June 27, 2025. (Reed Williams/AJC)

Credit: Reed Williams/AJC