The Falcoholic
The dead zone is nearly over, as Atlanta Falcons training camp begins on Wednesday, July 29. Things have been mostly quiet since my post-draft roster projection back in May, but a few notable roster moves along with reporting from OTAs and minicamp have adjusted my expectations for the Falcons’ 53-man roster slightly. I also finally got around to watching all the tape from the Browns 2025 offense—you’re welcome—and that changed a few of my assumptions a bit.
There are definitely some notable training camp battles to watch, with a few starting spots up for grabs. The back end of the roster is likely to be very competitive with an entirely new offensive coaching staff and head coach in the building. Headlining all of this is a truly open competition for QB1 between veteran Tua Tagovailoa and 2024 first-rounder Michael Penix Jr, the outcome of which could significantly alter Atlanta’s plans for this season and beyond.
Let’s dive right in to my latest thoughts on Atlanta’s 2026 53-man roster. The roster projection is also available in both video and audio format, which you can find embedded below. If you enjoyed the written version, consider giving us a click on these platforms as well.
Listen to the audio version of this article using the player below, or find it on your favorite podcast platforms.
Italics denote a change from the previous roster projection.
Tua Tagovailoa
Michael Penix Jr.
Trevor Siemian
We’ve received little clarity on the quarterback competition through OTAs and minicamp. The hope is that Michael Penix Jr. is ready to return for the start of training camp, and all signs are pointing to that being the plan. For the time being, I’m moving Tua Tagovailoa into the “presumptive starter” spot, simply by virtue of him being the healthiest option at this stage. This will be the biggest and most prominent battle of training camp. Hopefully it’s an exciting duel between two hungry, young QBs looking to prove themselves—and not utterly depressing a la Desmond Ridder vs Marcus Mariota. There’s an outside shot that Jack Strand, with a very impressive camp, could displace Trevor Siemian.
Bijan Robinson
Brian Robinson Jr.
Nate Carter
Cash Jones
While 90%+ of the carries and snaps will be handled by the duo of Bijan Robinson and Brian Robinson Jr., I do think this team may keep four running backs this season. Atlanta may wind up being one of the most run-heavy teams in the NFL (for good reason), and having a stable of talent to rotate in and develop over the course of the season is wise. I feel like I’m Nate Carter’s only remaining believer, so I’ll stay on that hill until something notable changes. There’s been enough chatter around Cash Jones to take his roster chances seriously, especially given his special teams prowess.
Kyle Pitts
Charlie Woerner
Austin Hooper
After doing a deep dive into the...
