Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan believes the offense will be fine if Ty Sambrailo has to start for Ryan Schraeder, who’s in the NFL’s concussion protocol.
“I think he did a great job for us in that game (against the Packers),” Ryan said. “It’s not an easy thing to do in-game, especially when you haven’t been here all that long. He did a really nice job for us.
“Obviously, he’s a consummate professional. He was prepared and ready to go. I think having a week to prepare will be good for him.”
Sambrailo, who played at Colorado State, didn’t feel any additional pressure to succeed in Denver because he played collegiately in-state.
“I’ve always put enough pressure on myself,” Sambrailo said. “I was just kind of battling through some circumstances and trying to make the best of my situation. Some things worked out for me, and I learned a lot. Some things didn’t, and I also learned from those. I grew as person and as a player.”
The Falcons made the trade for Sambrailo because they didn’t have any experienced backup tackles. Tom Compton, last season’s swing tackle, was allowed to leave via free agency. He signed with the Bears.
Sambrailo, 25, opened his rookie season as Denver’s left tackle, with Ryan Clady out injured.
Sambrailo, who’s listed at 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds, hopes to get his career back on track.
“I was thankful for my opportunity there, but I’m really happy that I’m here,” Sambrailo said. “I’m happy that the Falcons reached out and wanted me here. They saw what I’m capable of, and now I just have to out and do it.”
The Falcons sent a fifth round pick to Denver for Sambrailo on Sept. 1.
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