We knew Damontae Kazee was good going into last season. We didn’t expect him to blow up quite like he did, though. Season-ending injuries to Keanu Neal and Ricardo Allen forced Kazee into the Falcons’ starting lineup early in the year. While there were a few speed bumps (getting ejected for a hit on Cam Newton, for one), Kazee answered the call and was by far Atlanta’s top-performing defensive back of the year.
Kazee finished the season tied for the NFL lead with seven interceptions. By the looks of things, he’s ready to roll for 2019. Watch Kazee go through some footwork drills in Flowery Branch.
This year, Kazee will be sliding down to replace Brian Poole at the slot cornerback position.
For fans concerned about his playing time, remember that nickel has become the new base defense in the NFL. According to Football Outsiders, the league average for nickel formations was 60.5 percent in 2018. Atlanta was ahead of the trend, averaging 74 percent.
In addition to nickel corner, Kazee could also see time at free safety again if Allen is injured or not 100 percent by the time the season begins. Coach Dan Quinn also seems to be doing a lot of tinkering at all three levels of his defense this offseason, so it’s possible we will see Kazee moved around to other spots as well, similar to the way Neal has been used.
In any case, Kazee is a rising star and a Pro Bowl appearance should be in his near future.
