FFMasterMind.com Team QuickBits

Last Updated: Thu Sep 12, 2024, 2:58 PM

Atlanta Falcons

-- Kirk Cousins Says He's Healthy --
Thu Sep 12, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons QB Kirk Cousins addressed the concerns about his apparent unwillingness or inability to plant his right leg and drive the ball in a Thursday session with reporters. “I feel good,” Cousins said. “The Achilles feels good. I feel like I can move and push how I need to.” Cousins added that he needs more live action in order to trust the leg. Based on Week #1, he wasn’t trusting it. He wasn’t using his lower body the way he has. He was overcompensating, putting too much of his upper body into the throws. And he had less power and accuracy because of it. The next test comes Monday night in Philadelphia, followed by a Sunday night home game against the Chiefs.

-- Kyle Pitts Being Used on Shorter Routes --
Tue Sep 3, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

929 The Game reports Atlanta Falcons TE Kyle Pitts during training camp was catching balls on shorter routes at times. In other words, he was not just being used one longer seam routes.

-- Falcons Trade Taylor Heinicke --
Wed Aug 28, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons traded QB Taylor Heinicke to the Los Angeles Chargers for a conditional sixth-round draft pick.

-- Jakeem Grant a Free Agent Again --
Thu Aug 22, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons reached an injury settlement with WR Jakeem Grant (hamstring - IR) on Thursday, releasing him from injured reserve, the team announced. That makes Grant a free agent again.

-- Falcons Extend A.J. Terrell --
Thu Aug 22, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed DB A.J. Terrell to a four-year, $81 million contract extension, including $65.8 million in guaranteed money.

-- Matthew Judon Speaks --
Mon Aug 19, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports new Atlanta Falcons LB Matthew Judon commented on a getting new contract with his new team. "The Falcons know nothing about me as a football player or as a man. They know my previous resume. I can't really demand or ask for anything I haven't worked for. I'm gonna work for it," he said. It appears he's willing to play it out and look for a new deal after the 2024 season.

-- Falcons Release James Washington --
Sun Aug 18, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons have released veteran WR James Washington.

-- Younghoe Koo Misses Three FGAs --
Sat Aug 17, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons PK Younghoe Koo has never missed three field goals in a regular-season game. He did it Saturday in a preseason game. Koo was wide left on attempts of 40, 45 and 49 yards in the 13-12 loss to the Ravens. “I have my feeling, but I have to look at the film to confirm,” Koo said. “But I was hitting the ball. Contact and everything was great. It was just that the line was a little off. Just have to get that dialed in before Week 1.” Koo made a 24-yarder and a 54-yarder that hit the cross bar.

-- Matthew Judon Officially a Falcon --
Fri Aug 16, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports LB Matthew Judon could have derailed the trade that sent him from the New England Patriots to the Atlanta Falcons by refusing to show up for the physical on which the trade was expressly contingent. He didn’t. He showed. And he passed. Per the Falcons, the deal is official and final. This means that the Falcons get Judon at a base salary of $6.5 million this year. At least one source connected to neither of the teams believes that the Falcons gave up a third-round pick to get the low salary, and that the size of the selection shows that Atlanta has no plan to do anything about the contract.

-- Falcons IR Jakeem Grant --
Thu Aug 15, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons have placed WR Jakeem Grant on injured reserve, ending his season.

-- Falcons Sign Justin Simmons --
Thu Aug 15, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL Insider Jordan Schultz reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed free-agent S Justin Simmons to a one-year, $8 million contract.

-- Chris Lindstrom Restructures --
Thu Aug 15, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons have restructured OG Chris Lindstrom’s contract, converting part of his $12.5 million base salary into a signing bonus.

-- Falcons Acquire Matthew Judon --
Wed Aug 14, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the New England Patriots have traded disgruntled LB Matthew Judon to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a 2025 NFL Draft third-round draft pick. Judon and the Falcons have not worked out a new contract, at least not yet.

-- Falcons Host Justin Simmons --
Mon Aug 12, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports free-agent S Justin Simmons is taking a visit with the Atlanta Falcons on Monday and Tuesday.

-- DeMarcco Hellams OUT Indefinitely --
Mon Aug 12, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Falcons official website reports Falcons HC Raheem Morris says S DeMarcco Hellams (ankle) is going to miss some significant time with an ankle injury.

-- Falcons IR Two --
Sun Aug 11, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have placed LB Bralen Trice (knee) and CB Harrison Hand (knee) on injured reserve, ending their seasons.

-- Bralen Trice Lost for the Season --
Sun Aug 11, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Atlanta Falcons LB Bralen Trice (torn ACL) suffered a torn ACL in Friday’s preseason game against the Dolphins, ending his season.

-- Falcons Sign Jakeem Grant --
Sat Aug 10, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed free-agent WR Jakeem Grant.

-- DeMarcco Hellams Carted Off Field --
Fri Aug 9, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons S DeMarcco Hellams (leg) left tonight's game against the Dolphins on a cart with a left-leg injury. Hellams had an air cast applied to his left leg.

-- Rondale Moore Lost for the Season --
Thu Aug 8, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Atlanta Falcons WR Rondale Moore (knee), who was carted off from practice yesterday, suffered a season-ending knee injury.

-- Rondale Moore Carted Off the Field with a Leg Injury --
Wed Aug 7, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Atlanta Falcons WR Rondale Moore (leg) was carted off the practice field minutes ago with an inflatable cast on his right leg.

-- Falcons Training Camp Practice Notes --
Wed Jul 31, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Atlanta Falcons QB Kirk Cousins took off and ran during a two-minute drill, putting to the test that surgically repaired right Achilles. Cousins got a 6-yard gain on the play with HC Raheem Morris shouting “blow the whistle!” Cousins said his run probably gave Morris “a little bit of a heart attack. But Cousins said his leg feels good and his plan of doing the rest of his rehab by simply playing football has been a success thus far. Cousins was 18-of-27 in 11-on-11 drills during the team’s sixth practice of training camp, on mostly short passes. TE Kyle Pitts, for the second straight day, was a monster in 1-on-1 drills beating safeties, including S Jessie Bates on one pass from Cousins. That prompted Morris to say: “Hey Kyle, let him know his Madden rating can’t help him out here.” WR Darnell Mooney and RB Bijan Robinson both had four catches from Cousins with WR Rondale Moore next with two, his first two receptions from Cousins of camp. Moore has worked mostly with QB Michael Penix Jr. and the second team this summer, but got reps with the 1s today due to his level of play.

-- Falcons Sign James Washington --
Mon Jul 29, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran free-agent WR James Washington.

-- Falcons Saturday Practice Notes --
Sat Jul 27, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports during today's practice session, Atlanta Falcons QB Kirk Cousins was 14-of-16 and at one point completed 10 straight passes, a second straight day of great success against the team's first and second team defenses Cousins completed passes to six different receivers, but also had his first interception of camp, a LB Troy Andersen pick. TE Kyle Pitts caught four passes from Cousins, while WR Drake London and WR Ray-Ray McCloud each caught three. London was back at walkthroughs last night after leaving practice yesterday morning due to being overheated. McCloud caught a 30-yard pass from Cousins, his second big play in as many days, and seems to have the inside track on the slot receiver role. RB Bijan Robinson had a wicked spin move to get free on an early run and he and RB Tyler Allgeier have both been big parts of the first-team offense. Meanwhile, rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. was 4-for-7 passing and threw for an interception for the first time, with CB Clark Phillips getting the pick.

-- Kirk Cousins Fully Practices Thursday --
Thu Jul 25, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Athletic reports Atlanta Falcons QB Kirk Cousins (Achilles) practiced in full on Thursday.

-- Kirk Cousins Medically Cleared, But... --
Thu Jul 25, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Atlanta Falcons HC Raheem Morris said QB Kirk Cousins (Achilles), who is recovering from a torn Achilles, has been medically cleared, but the team will be diligent with him and other players coming off injury in their “modified reps.”

-- Falcons Sign Julien Davenport --
Tue Jul 23, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran free-agent OT Julien Davenport.

-- Kyle Pitts to See Action as a WR --
Sun Jul 14, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports Atlanta Falcons TE Kyle Pitts will also see some work as a wide receiver, according to sources.

-- Falcons Working on More Ways to Get Bijan Robinson the Football --
Sat Jul 13, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports Falcons OC Zac Robinson says the offensive is “continuing to tailor and tweak things and find creative ways to get RB Bijan Robinson the football.”

-- Falcons Sign 1st-Rounder Michael Penix Jr. --
Fri Jun 21, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL Insider Jordan Schultz reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed first-round draft pick QB Michael Penix Jr. to a four-year, $22.88 million contract. The deal includes a $13.46 million signing bonus.

-- Bijan Robinson Will Get the Football as Much as Possible in 2024 --
Tue Jun 18, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Falcons official website reports Falcons HC Raheem Morris echoed what has been said earlier that the team would give the ball to RB Bijan Robinson as much as possible in 2024. “In as simple of a form as you can possibly make it,” Morris said, “it’s ‘get the ball to Bijan as much as you can in as many ideal situations that you possibly can.’”

-- Falcons Lose 5th-Round Draft Pick & Assessed Fines in Cousins & Others Signings --
Thu Jun 13, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the NFL today informed the Atlanta Falcons of the discipline being imposed for violations of the Anti-Tampering Policy related to improper contact with prospective unrestricted free agents QB Kirk Cousins, WR Darnell Mooney, and TE Charlie Woerner during the two-day negotiating period prior to the start of the 2024 League Year. Atlanta will forfeit its original fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and pay a fine of $250,000, while GM Terry Fontenot has been fined $50,000. While the policy permits clubs to engage with and negotiate all aspects of an NFL player contract with the certified agent of any prospective unrestricted free agent during the two-day negotiating period, any direct contact between the player and an employee or representative of the club is prohibited. This includes discussion of travel arrangements or other logistical matters, which the club acknowledges took place with regard to these three players.

-- A Very Heavy Workload Coming for Bijan Robinson --
Tue Jun 11, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Atlanta Falcons HC Raheem Morris commented on his plan for RB Bijan Robinson: "Get the ball to Bijan as much as you can in as many ideal situations as you possibly can."

-- Bijan Robinson: Falcons Will be More Run-First --
Mon Jun 3, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Journal Constituton reports Falcons RB Bijan Robinson says the offense will be more run first, like how they use RB Christian McCaffrey in San Francisco. Meanwhile, Robinson took part in practice on Monday for the first time since suffering what he called a “light sprain” of his left ankle early in the team’s offseason program. Robinson said that he feels close to 100 percent.

-- Falcons Sign 4th-Rounder Brandon Dorlus --
Thu May 30, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed 4rth-round draft pick DL Brandon Dorlus to a four-year contract.

-- Bijan Robinson Rehab Update --
Wed May 22, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons RB Bijan Robinson (ankle) has been out of the team’s recent offseason practices due to an ankle injury. But HC Raheem Morris said on Tuesday that it looks like Robinson will be available for the team’s mandatory minicamp in June. “I’m hoping — really, really positive about it as well, too — veteran minicamp, we’ll get a chance to see something, some movements, things of that nature,” Morris said. “But he’s progressing well. He’s been out there. He’s in great spirits."

-- Falcons Sign 3rd-Rounder Bralen Trice --
Fri May 17, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Falcons official website reports the Falcons have signed 3rd-round draft pick LB Bralen Trice to a four-year contract.

-- Falcons Release Ade Ogundeji --
Thu May 16, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have released LB Ade Ogundeji.

-- Falcons Sign Anthony Johnson --
Wed May 15, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran free-agent CB Anthony Johnson.

-- Three Falcons Sit --
Tue May 14, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons HC Raheem Morris told reporters on Tuesday that RB Bijan Robinson is not practicing because of an ankle injury. DT Grady Jarrett (knee) and sixth-round draft pick RB Jase McClellan (foot) are also sitting out.

-- Falcons Sign 2nd-Rounder Ruke Orhorhoro --
Mon May 13, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed 2nd-round draft pick DT Ruke Orhorhoro to a four-year contract.

-- Falcons Sign Ross Dwelley --
Mon May 13, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran free-agent TE Ross Dwelley.

-- Falcons Sign Dane Cruikshank --
Sat May 11, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran free-agent S Dane Cruikshank.

-- Falcons Sign Four Drafted Rookies --
Fri May 10, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed drafted rookies LB J.D. Bertrand, RB Jase McClellan, WR Casey Washington, and DT Zion Logue to four-year contracts.

-- Kirk Cousins Pretty Much Full-Go, But... --
Fri May 10, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons HC Raheem Morris says QB Kirk Cousins (Achilles) is able to participate in pretty much all aspects of what the club is doing at this point in Phase II. “Kirk is every day improving,” Morris said in his press conference. "[With] nobody around him, there’s no contact — he’s all good with all those type of things. He’s been doing all those things, he’s been throwing, he’s been out there pretty much full-go. Now, we got him in a limited basis, obviously because he’s still in his rehab and his treatment and all those types of things. But he’ll be doing a lot of the things when we get back because we still won’t have a lot of people in the pocket. Most of the stuff is jog-through, as you guys know in the offseason programs now. So, he’s full-go in those types of things. We’ll limit what he does as far as the amount, not necessarily what he’s doing when it comes to what we’re at, and what we’re able to do right now. It’s not like training camp where I’m worried about people being around his feet, because the pace is so [much] slower that we feel really good about where he’s at right now.”

-- Darnell Mooney Watch --
Sat May 4, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Athletic reports Atlanta Falcons WR Darnell Mooney will be relied on regularly this season with the new offense expected to feature three-receiver sets 90% of the time.

-- Falcons Pick Up 5th-Year Option on Kyle Pitts --
Mon Apr 29, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons have picked up the 5th-year option on TE Kyle Pitts.

-- Kirk Cousins Contacts Michael Penix --
Fri Apr 26, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons QB Kirk Cousins contacted rookie QB Michael Penix on Thursday night. “He did reach out. We had a very good conversation. He reached out last night,” Penix said. “I’m going to keep it just between me and him right now, but it was definitely a good conversation, and I’m super excited to work with him, and he said he was the same with me.” Penix, who turns 24 next month, is expected to sit behind Cousins for at least two years. He hasn’t gone into the season as a backup since 2018. Penix, though, said he is fine with his role as Cousins’ backup this season. “Yeah, for sure, man,” he said. “I’m here to do whatever I can to help this team win football teams. That’s the biggest thing for me. I love winning, and I’m a team guy. That’s what I’m going to be in the locker room. Kirk, he’s an amazing guy. I actually watched the [Netflix’s] Quarterback series with him. And seeing he’s a man of faith, just like me, he’s all about his family. I really enjoyed that."

-- Falcons: Cousins is our QB; Penix is our Future --
Fri Apr 26, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons selected QB Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick only six weeks after signing QB Kirk Cousins to a four-year deal worth up to $180 million. The move took everyone, including Cousins, by surprise. “Kirk Cousins is our quarterback,” GM Terry Fontenot said, via video from the team. “We’re very excited about Kirk. We’re very excited about this team. Michael Penix is . . . we’re talking about the future. You look at the future. You look at the big picture. We are very excited about that quarterback room, and again, Kirk is our quarterback. But adding Michael Penix is thinking about the future.”

-- Kirk Cousin in the Dark About Michael Penix's Pick --
Thu Apr 25, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Atlanta Falcons QB Kirk Cousin’s agent was not told that the Falcons planned to draft QB Michael Penix with the eighth pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

-- Did Robert Kraft Warn Falcons Not to Trust Bill Belichick? --
Wed Apr 17, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank decided against hiring Bill Belichick after getting direct input from Patriots owner Robert Kraft. An unnamed source said this: “Robert called Arthur to warn him not to trust Bill.” The unnamed source didn’t speak directly to Kraft or Blank, however. The source is a “source who spoke to two people: a close Kraft friend and a longtime Belichick confidant.” Is that enough to justify making that claim? The Patriots deny the report, via team spokesman Stacey James. “Robert steadfastly denies saying anything negative to Arthur Blank about Bill Belichick after Robert and Bill mutually agreed to part ways,” James said. “In fact, Robert advocated for Bill to get the job.” Did Kraft ever say anything negative to Blank about Belichick? “It would not surprise me to learn that owners sometimes lament to those close to them when their teams are struggling,” James said, “but Robert Kraft never questioned Bill’s character or trust when talking with Arthur Blank. Trust is important to Robert. He wouldn’t have employed Coach Belichick for the past 24 years if he ever questioned his trust.” Trust is a key word in this context because Blank needed to be able to trust Belichick’s claim that he would work with the existing power structure and not attempt to take over the organization.

-- Falcons Sign James Smith-Williams --
Tue Apr 9, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed free-agent DE James Smith-Williams to a one-year contract.

-- Falcons Sign Kevin King --
Mon Apr 8, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran free-agent CB Kevin King.

-- Falcons Could Re-Sign Calais Campbell --
Mon Apr 8, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons HC Raheem Morris says the team is open to re-signing DE Calais Campbell.

-- Falcons Workout Michael Penix --
Fri Apr 5, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons hosted a private workout for NFL draft prospect QB Michael Penix.

-- Falcons Sign One --
Thu Apr 4, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran free-agent CB Antonio Hamilton.

-- Falcons Re-Sign One --
Tue Apr 2, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have re-signed DT Eddie Goldman.

-- Taylor Heinicke Takes Less with Restructure --
Tue Apr 2, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have restructured QB Taylor Heinicke’s contract for 2024. Heinicke, who started four games for Atlanta in 2023, took a big pay cut to remain with the Falcons. He’ll now make $1.2 million in 2024, down from his original base salary of $5.2 million. The move saves the Falcons about $4 million against the salary cap.

-- Falcons Re-sign One --
Mon Mar 18, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have re-signed DL Kentavius Street.

-- Falcons to Sign Ray-Ray McLoud --
Thu Mar 14, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have agreed to terms with free-agent WR Ray-Ray McLoud on a two-year, $6 million contract.

-- Falcons Acquire Rondale Moore for Desmond Ridder --
Thu Mar 14, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have acquired WR Rondale Moore from the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for QB Desmond Ridder.

-- Falcons Shopping Desmond Ridder --
Thu Mar 14, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Atlanta Falcons have been discussing a potential trade of QB Desmond Ridder with other teams.

-- Falcons Re-Sign Two --
Thu Mar 14, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have re-signed WR KhaDarel Hodge and OL Storm Norton.

-- Kirk Cousins Rehab Update --
Wed Mar 13, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports QB Kirk Cousins (Achilles) officially has joined the Atlanta Falcons. He met with the media on Wednesday night. As he recovers from a torn Achilles tendon suffered on October 29, Cousins said that he hopes to be “full speed” before the end of offseason workouts. Cousins declined to apply a percentage to leg, post surgery. “I can take drops.” Cousins said. “I can play the quarterback position, if you will, throwing the football.” He said that the limitations would arise when leaving the pocket.

-- Falcons to Sign Darnell Mooney --
Tue Mar 12, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons are signing WR Darnell Mooney to a three-year, $39 million contract with $26 million fully guaranteed.

-- Falcons Sign Charlie Woerner --
Mon Mar 11, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons have agreed to terms with free-agent TE Charlie Woerner on a three-year, $12 million contract.

-- Falcons to Sign Kirk Cousins --
Mon Mar 11, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons and free-agent QB Kirk Cousins have agreed to a four-year contract, according to his agent, Mike McCartney. He gets a $180 million deal in Atlanta with $100 million guaranteed.

-- Kirk Cousins to Talk with the Falcons --
Mon Mar 11, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Athletic reports QB Kirk Cousins will hit free agency and begin discussions with the Atlanta Falcons.

-- Falcons Shun a Justin Fields Acquisition? --
Mon Mar 11, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports it doesn’t sound like the Atlanta Falcons have given a trade for Bears QB Justin Fields strong consideration.

-- Falcons Re-Sign One --
Wed Mar 6, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have re-signed LB Nate Landman.

-- Kirk Cousins to Become a Falcon? --
Mon Mar 4, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports there are very credible indications that free-agent QB Kirk Cousins is seriously considering moving his family to Atlanta. Which would mean, obviously, that he’d be signing with the Falcons. The Falcons have always been the top alternative to the Vikings for Cousins, who becomes an unrestricted free agent next Wednesday. And for good reason. His wife, Julie, grew up in nearby Alpharetta, Georgia. Her parents still live there. The Vikings have, by all appearances, decided they want to keep Cousins, but only at their price. They seem to think he won’t get a better offer elsewhere. If he does, they seem to be content to let him go.

-- Falcons Extend Ryan Neuzil --
Sun Mar 3, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed OG Ryan Neuzil to a one-year contract extension.

-- Falcons Eyeing Kirk Cousins --
Sun Mar 3, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons’ top quarterback solution is QB Kirk Cousins, should he hit free agency.

-- Falcons Release Jonnu Smith --
Tue Feb 27, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Atlanta Falcons have released veteran TE Jonnu Smith. Smith, 28, was under contract for one more season. By releasing him, the Falcons saved $6.5 million in cap space.

-- Falcons Looking at All Options for QB --
Thu Feb 15, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons new OC Zac Robinson has made it clear that the Falcons will be casting a wide net for a starting quarterback in 2024. “All options are on the table,” Robinson said. By all options, that means the Falcons will consider anyone and everyone, regardless of playing style. “Whether it’s a pocket guy, whether it’s a guy that can move around a little bit, we’re just looking for the best guy,” Robinson said. “Certainly [we] know the guys that are here, we’re evaluating everybody, so QB Taylor Heinicke and QB Desmond Ridder, we’re looking at those guys.” They’ll be looking at other guys, too. There will be options in free agency, headlined by Vikings QB Kirk Cousins. Whose wife grew up in Alpharetta, Georgia, and whose parents still live there.

-- Desmond Ridder Could be Traded --
Mon Feb 12, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Atlanta Falcons QB Desmond Ridder could be a trade candidate whenever the team acquires a new quarterback.

-- Falcons Name Four; Retain One --
Sat Feb 3, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have named Kevin Koger TEs Coach, Nick Jones Assistant Offensive Line Coach, Barrett Ruud Inside Linebackers Coach, and Chandler Whitmer Passing Game Specialist. Additionally, the Falcons announced they will retain Steven King as Special Teams Assistant.

-- Falcons Name Ike Hilliard --
Thu Feb 1, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have named Ike Hilliard WRs coach.

-- Falcons Name Jimmy Lake --
Mon Jan 29, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have named Jimmy Lake Defensive Coordinator.

-- Falcons Name T.J. Yates --
Mon Jan 29, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have named T.J. Yates QBs Coach.

-- Falcons Name Zac Robinson --
Sat Jan 27, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have named Zac Robinson Offensive Coordinator.

-- Falcons Retain Marquice Williams --
Sat Jan 27, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons are retaining special teams coordinator Marquice Williams, per source.

-- Falcons Name Raheem Morris New Head Coach --
Thu Jan 25, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have named Raheem Morris their new Head Coach.

-- Falcons Moving Towards Naming Raheem Morris --
Thu Jan 25, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons are zeroing in on Rams DC Raheem Morris as their next head coach.

-- Bill Belichick Watch --
Thu Jan 25, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports former Patriots HC Bill Belichick is not the favorite to land the Atlanta Falcons vacant head coaching job. There is a real possibility Belichick won’t agree to a head coaching job this off-season.

-- Falcons Head Coaching Search Update --
Sun Jan 21, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Atlanta Falcons are interviewing Texans OC Bobby Slowik today. They also will be meeting this week with former Titans HC Mike Vrabel and Michigan HC Jim Harbaugh in person, and scheduling other in-person head-coaching interviews as well. Their head coaching search is said to be “wide open.”

-- Falcons to Interview Jim Harbaugh a Second Time --
Sat Jan 20, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have scheduled a second interview with Michigan HC Jim Harbaugh for their vacant head coaching job.

-- Falcons to Interview Bill Belichick a Second Time --
Thu Jan 18, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons are expected to hold a second meeting with former Patriots HC Bill Belichick regarding their head coaching vacancy.

-- Falcons Interview Jim Harbaugh --
Tue Jan 16, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have completed an interview with Michigan HC Jim Harbaugh for their vacant head coaching job.

-- Falcons Meet with Bill Belichick --
Tue Jan 16, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports former Patriots HC Bill Belichick and Falcons owner Arthur Blank met in person recently to discuss Atlanta’s head coaching job, per sources. No deal is imminent, but there is mutual interest and conversations are ongoing.

-- Kyle Pitts Admits to a More Significant Knee Injury in 2022 --
Wed Jan 10, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons TE Kyle Pitts has admitted that he suffered a PCL injury in addition to a torn MCL during the 2022 season.

-- Calais Campbell Leaning Towards Playing in 2024 --
Mon Jan 8, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Atlanta Falcons soon-to-be-free-agent DE Calais Campbell said he’s leaning toward playing again in 2024. He played all 17 games in 2023, but is 38 years old.

-- Falcons Eyeing Bill Belichick --
Mon Jan 8, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reports the Atlanta Falcons are a team to watch if Patriots HC Bill Belichick becomes available.

-- Falcons Fire HC Arthur Smith --
Sun Jan 7, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Atlanta Falcons have fired HC Arthur Smith, the team announced just after midnight. Smith compiled a 21-30 record, going 7-10 in each of his three seasons with the Falcons. The club lost to New Orleans 48-17 on Sunday to close the season. “Decisions like this are never easy and they never feel good,” owner Arthur Blank said in a statement. “We have profound respect for coach Smith and appreciate all the hard work and dedication he has put into the Falcons over the last three years. He has been part of building a good culture in our football team, but the results on the field have not met our expectations. “After significant thought and reflection, we have determined the best way forward for our team is new leadership in the head coaching position.”

-- Adios Arthur Smith? --
Sun Jan 7, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz reports the Atlanta Falcons and HC Arthur Smith are likely heading toward a breakup.

-- Arthur Smith Future Watch --
Sat Jan 6, 2024 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank knows and has acknowledged that he has a heavy decision to make about whether he wants to make any significant organizational changes. Blank is said to have gone back and forth, and to be torn, according to sources. He is a fan of HC Arthur Smith, one of the brighter offensive minds in the game, but that might not be enough for Atlanta to stand pat. The Falcons have been surveying the coaching landscape, mulling what options are out there should they decide to make a change, according to league sources.

-- Taylor Heinicke Still Likely to Start Final Three Games --
Sun Dec 24, 2023 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Atlanta Falcons QB Taylor Heinicke is likely to start the rest of the season over QB Desmond Ridder.

-- NFL fines Falcons Over Bijan Robinson's Week #7 Illness --
Fri Dec 22, 2023 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the NFL has fined the Atlanta Falcons for failing to disclose RB Bijan Robinson’s illness in Week #7 against the Buccaneers. The league fined HC Arthur Smith $25,000 and the team $75,000 for not listing Robinson on that week’s injury report with a headache or an illness of some kind.

-- Taylor Heinicke Likely to Start Final Three Games --
Wed Dec 20, 2023 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Atlanta Falcons HC Arthur Smith confirms that QB Taylor Heinicke will start this week and likely the final three games. QB Desmond Ridder will back him up

-- Arthur Smith Won't Be Fired Before the Season Ends --
Wed Dec 20, 2023 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atyhletic reports Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank said he will wait until the offseason to decide on HC Arthur Smith’s future with the team.

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