Falcons backup quarterback T.J. Yates, a native of Marietta, had a fine debut with his hometown team.
The Falcons acquired the former Pope High standout in a trade with the Houston Texans on June 18th after their offseason training program was completed. The Falcons sent linebacker Akeem Dent to the Texans for Yates, and released last season’s backup Dominique Davis.
Despite having just 12 practices with the Falcons, Yates replaced Matt Ryan as the second-team quarterback against the Miami Dolphins on Friday night at the Georgia Dome.
Yates played five possessions and led the offense to a field goal late in the second quarter.
“It felt pretty good,” Yates said. “It was good to get out there and kind of get in a rhythm. In training camp it’s hard to get in a rhythm in practice.”
Overall, he completed 7 of 16 passes for 127 yards. He also had two rushes for 8 yards.
“It was good to get out there and get a couple drives and move up and down the field and get in the swing of things,” Yates said. “It was good to get a feel for the offense in real game mode.”
Ryan was impressed with Yates’ day.
“I thought he went out there and executed nicely,” Ryan said. “He threw the ball well and got us into the right plays and the right checks.”
Sean Renfree came on in the third quarter and finished out the game.
“Sean made some nice plays, too,” Ryan said. “His comfort level in the offense showed tonight. He’s been around now, going into his second year. Worked really hard in the film room and was a big help for me last year.”
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