The Falcons have now played two preseason games in 2019. Both were losses, but what really matters at this time of the year is evaluating roster bubble players and rookies.
Let’s take a look at how a few first-year players performed in last night’s loss to the Dolphins.
RB Qadree Ollison
In the Hall of Fame Game last week, the only backup running back who stood out was Brian Hill. This time around, that honor went to fifth-round pick Qadree Ollison, who came on strong in the second half. Ollison finished the game with 41 yards on eight carries – an average of 5.1 yards per rush. He also showed some ability as a pass protector.
WRs Olamide Zaccheaus, C.J. Worton, Khalil Lewis
Predicting which players will stand out in the preseason is a guessing game. Against Denver, rookie wide receivers Shawn Bane and Christian Blake stood out. This week, they didn’t do much and three other undrafted receivers made some plays.
Zaccheaus had the catch of the night on this 28-yard gain.
Lewis also caught a 28- yard pass and Worton came through with a 27-yarder. All three of them have their work cut out to make the roster.
DL John Cominsky
Cominsky didn’t jump out quite like he did against the Broncos, but he still had a good game. He posted two tackles, one quarterback hit and another tackle for a loss.
LB Del’Shawn Phillips
Atlanta is pretty loaded at linebacker and it will be tough for any rookies to make the cut. Phillips did his best to stand out, though. He recovered a fumble and posted five combined tackles, the third most on the team. Phillips also had a solid performance in the first preseason game, so he’s a riser to keep an eye on.
