Thursday’s preseason game between the Falcons and the Dolphins was a good one for Atlanta’s pass rush.
The first-string defense was able to get a lot of pressure on Ryan Fitzpatrick, even if they were unable to close the deal with a sack. Takk McKinley and Vic Beasley looked explosive off the edge and Jack Crawford did a good Grady Jarrett impression in the middle.
Some of the backup pass rushers also flashed – particularly second-year defensive end Austin Larkin. Here is what general manager Thomas Dimitroff had to say about Larkin’s game, per Vaughn McClure at ESPN.
“Nice quick step. Gets around the corner well with athleticism. … He’s not the fastest guy, but he plays fast.’’
Larkin finished the game tied for a team-high six solo tackles, one sack and two quarterback hits.
Atlanta’s defensive line rotation appears to be much deeper this year on paper, especially given the additions of Adrian Clayborn and Allen Bailey in free agency. It won’t be easy for Larkin to make the team, but if he continues playing at this level coach Dan Quinn will have to at least consider including him in the 53-man roster.
Larkin is the nephew of Hall of Fame shortstop Barry Larkin.
