Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones believes the offense is going to throw more deep passes in 2016.
“We are going to take a lot more chances and shots down the field,” Jones said Wednesday.
Quarterback Matt Ryan and Jones didn’t connect on a deep pass in the minicamp practice. Jones got a step on cornerback Jalen Collins, but the pass was overthrown and too far outside.
“We just have to be on the same page,” Jones said. “That’s why we have to talk … not having gray areas. We have to know in that situation like where he’s going to throw the ball. My mind said he’s going to put the ball here.”
Jones believes that having speedy wide receiver Aldrick Robinson will help the deep passing game.
“Aldrick Robinson is another speedy, down-the-field guy,” Jones said. “He can go get the ball where ever it’s at. He’s up to speed as well. He’s got great hand and can go get the ball.”
While the Falcons want to go deep more, offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan doesn’t want to force the ball into coverage.
“You always look at that after each game, when did you have (a one-on-one deep opportunity) and when did you not,” Shanahan said. “Explosive plays, I think this will be my ninth year calling plays, it’s really never been an issue. We didn’t get as many last year.”
Most teams tend to double-cover Jones, which may free Robinson as an option.
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