Atlanta Falcons: Seven Final Preseason Position Battles

The top of the Atlanta Falcons depth chart at wide receiver is certainly solidified. The trio of Julio Jones, Mohamed Sanu, and Calvin Ridley, should easily be one of the best in the NFL. After that, there is major competition for the remaining spots. It remains to be seen rather coach Dan Quinn will keep five or six wide receivers.

Marvin Hall, a 5’10 190 receiver from the University of Washington, has played well this preseason. He seems to have a good shot at securing a roster spot. He caught two passes for 60 yards, including a 40 yard touchdown reception for the Atlanta Falcons last season.

Russell Gage, drafted in the 6th round of this year’s draft, is a 6’0 184 pound wide receiver out of LSU. He’s was drafted specifically for his special teams’ excellence. The Falcons were the worse NFL kick coverage unit last season. For that reason, I would be shocked if Russell didn’t make the Atlanta Falcons final 53 man roster.

Should the previously mentioned roster spots be filled in that manner, that would leave Justin Hardy, and Reggie Davis competing for the final roster spot at wide receiver. Justin Hardy is a veteran, out of East Carolina. He has caught 62 passes in his three-year career, for 618 yards and seven touchdowns. His most noted attributes are good hands, and good blocking. Hardy also offers value on special teams. His weakness is, he often struggles to get separation.

Reggie Davis is a wide receiver and special teams ace. He is a hometown favorite, having signed with the Atlanta Falcons, as an undrafted free agent in 2017 from the University of Georgia. He spent most of last season on the dirty birds’ practice squad. Davis has great speed, and good height. He is still raw as a receiver, and his hands are a work in progress. At this point his best value is on special teams, but a strong showing at wide receiver, could possibly lock down a spot on the roster for Davis.