Falcons defensive coordinator Marquand Manuel has a unique perspective of Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

The former defensive back played with Rodgers and the Packers during the 2006 season and faced him everyday in practice.

“He’s a tremendous athlete,” Manuel said.

He plans to have his unit ready for the Packers’ high-octane offense and Rodgers knack for catching teams switching personnel and his hard cadence at the line of scrimmage.

“Every single play we have to get our cleats in the dirt and be ready to go,” Manuel said.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Falcons left guard Matthew Bergeron was injured in the loss to the Patriots last week and will not play against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday in Berlin. (Hyosub Shin/AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Featured

Travelers walk around the baggage claim in the South Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. Atlanta is among the airports where the FAA will reduce flights due to the shutdown, and airports are facing a shortage of air traffic controllers. 
(Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez