Falcons Recap: QB options, roster updates, trade details
It's been a busy week around the NFL with tons of roster cuts, trades and practice squad signings. The Atlanta Falcons successfully trimmed their roster down to 53 players by the cut deadline, pulled off a trade and filled all 16 practice squad spots in roughly three days.
In today's Falcons recap, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin gives Raheem Morris a warning and we examine some potential quarterback options for Atlanta. Plus, we look at the team's updated roster and practice squad:
Falcons' updated 53-man roster
On Tuesday, the Falcons released their initial 53-man roster and there weren't many surprises. The team only kept five wide receivers and nine defensive backs, despite having some depth questions at both positions. Atlanta has just 52 players currently, but there is plenty of time to tinker with the roster before next Sunday's season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Don't be surprised to see another receiver or quarterback added to the roster over the next few days.
Taylor Heinicke traded for conditional draft pick
Heinicke made the initial 53-man roster but was traded one day later. The Falcons sent the veteran quarterback to the Los Angeles Chargers for a conditional seventh-round draft pick in 2025. If Heinicke hits playing time incentives, the pick can become a sixth-rounder. Either way, the Falcons get something in return for a player they weren't planning to use in 2024. Heinicke can serve as the No. 2 QB for the Chargers, giving him a much better chance of seeing the field this season.
5 QB options to replace Heinicke
The Falcons don't have to sign another quarterback, but they still have a roster spot available and it never hurts to have a third developmental option. We highlighted five quarterback options for the Falcons to replace Heinicke, including rookie Michael Pratt and former Patriots QB Bailey Zappe. Atlanta could look to add someone to its practice squad, but most decent options would require the team to poach someone from another team's practice squad. Since the Falcons have a roster spot available, they could potentially go this route.
Mike Tomlin has warning for Raheem Morris
The Falcons play their first game of the season next Sunday when the Pittsburgh Steelers come to Atlanta. There is no shortage of storylines to follow in Week 1. Arthur Smith and Cordarrelle Patterson will make their return to Mercedes-Benz Stadium after spending three seasons with the Falcons. Earlier this week, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin gave a friendly warning to Raheem Morris ahead of next weekend's matchup. “My friend Raheem Morris better be ready for a Justin Fields package,” said Tomlin. “There’s too much talent to be sitting around watching.”
Falcons fill out 16-man practice squad
The Falcons have officially filled all 16 practice squad spots. Linebacker Monty Rice was announced as the 16th player on Friday. The former third-round pick out of Georgia has a good chance of being called up due to his experience and special teams ability. Cornerback Natrone Brooks, wide receiver Chris Blair and defensive back Kevin King were among the notable players signed to Atlanta's practice squad.
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This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons Recap: QB options, roster updates, trade details
