Every year, there are a few players that are expected to make the Atlanta Falcons’ 53-man roster and don’t.
Looking at the projected roster for next season, here’s a few players that could be surprise cuts for Atlanta this year.
S Kemal Ishmael
A big storyline this offseason has been the play of the new safeties Chris Cooper and J.J Wilcox. In a crowded competition for the backup safety role, Ishmael may be the odd man out. Being that his usage comes primarily on special teams, the front office may want to venture elsewhere and open up a roster spot.
According to an article written by the Athletic, both defensive backs coach Doug Mallory and Dan Quinn suggested an increase in Cooper’s playing time. Quinn also told the media this week that Wilcox has been impressive thus far.
WR Justin Hardy
Amid reports that teammate Russell Gage has had an impressive offseason, Hardy might be in line to finally lose the WR4 spot. In his presser, Quinn said that the development of Gage has been “significant to me.”
With Dirk Koetter stepping in at offensive coordinator, a guy who likes to use gadget players, Hardy’s status may be in question with guys like Gage standing out.
LB Duke Riley
Jermaine Grace is a serious threat to take Riley’s spot as a backup linebacker. As a guy with good athletic ability and play speed, Grace is a perfect fit for what the team looks for at the weak-side linebacker spot. After two shaky seasons, Riley is on the hot seat. Plus, the fact that Grace earned first-team reps at practice with Deion Jones injured is significant.
