Linebacker O’Brien Schofield followed coach Dan Quinn from the Seahawks to the Falcons so he had a better idea than most about what to expect.
But Schofield joined a defense that had plenty of veteran holdovers. Eventually Schofield took on more of a leadership role and he said plans to do more to help build the team’s culture if he returns for the 2016 season.
“When I first got here I was sort of sitting back and letting the guys do their thing because I didn’t know who the leaders were and I was just waiting for my opportunity,” he said. “When the opportunity came, I definitely understood what Coach Quinn wants and what he is looking for and what it looks like. I think it will be easier to direct guys from OTAs on to ‘This is how we do things and this is what it’s going to take to win.’”
Quinn was Schofield’s defensive coordinator with the Seahawks in 2013 and 2014. The Falcons signed Schofield to a one-year, $1.7 million contract. He is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent in March but he said he’s already planning to work with teammates in the coming weeks.
“I think the most important thing is that chemistry,” Schofield said. “I think we were so focused on football we didn’t really get that time to spend together outside and away from the game. When you have that brotherly love, that chemistry that takes you a little bit further in the game. It changes the dynamic and the meaning of why you are playing. The chemistry, the team-building this off season is going to be huge.”
