ClutchPoints
NFL training camps and preseason are proving grounds where potential meets pressure. The Atlanta Falcons are learning just how tough the cutdown process can be. With the 53-man roster deadline looming, Atlanta has already started making difficult choices. A few names released so far have turned heads. For a team banking on youth and a new franchise quarterback to lead them forward, some of these roster cuts highlight both the challenges of rebuilding and the urgency to compete now.
The Falcons finished their 2025 preseason with a winless 0-3 record. They dropped games against the Detroit Lions, Tennessee Titans, and Dallas Cowboys. Following the final preseason matchup, the Falcons moved quickly to trim down the roster. They released 12 players and placed offensive lineman Jake Hanson on injured reserve. Quarterbacks Michael Penix Jr and veteran Kirk Cousins did not see any action. Meanwhile, backup Easton Stick handled preseason reps under center.
Penix, the sophomore first-rounder tasked with leading the franchise, will enter the season as QB1. Atlanta has leaned heavily on its established playmakers like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts to ease his transition. At the same time, general manager Terry Fontenot also invested draft capital into bolstering the defense. This blend of youth and proven talent presents both opportunities and growing pains. Whether this roster is on the verge of a genuine rebuild or just looking for a spark remains to be seen, one thing is certain. The Falcons are shaping their team around Penix’s ability to trust the pieces around him. That vision has already led to tough calls in roster management, with a few surprise cuts grabbing headlines.
Here we’ll try to look at and discuss the Atlanta Falcons’ surprise preseason roster cuts to watch out for before Week 1.
Perhaps the most surprising cut so far was defensive lineman Morgan Fox. Signed as part of the Falcons’ first wave of free-agent additions, Fox’s release raised eyebrows given his experience and versatility. With 120 career games over eight NFL seasons, he was widely expected to provide stability and depth for a defense in transition.
Preseason usage, however, told the story. Unlike other veterans who were rested, Fox played in all three games and managed just four tackles, one for a loss. The Falcons’ coaching staff clearly felt that younger, more dynamic options gave them a better chance to develop a long-term identity along the defensive front. Sure, Fox’s release wasn’t shocking to insiders who followed camp rotations. Still, it was easily the least-expected move among Atlanta’s opening round of cuts. His departure leaves a noticeable gap in veteran presence on the defensive line. It’s one that the team will have to fill with unproven talent.
Another notable name cut from the roster was wide receiver Jesse Matthews. On the surface, the decision seems puzzling. Atlanta’s receiving corps is already a concern. There are depth issues looming behind...
