The Atlanta Falcons began their organized team activities (OTA’s) Wednesday and will continue them until June 14. Finally fans can witness the Falcons take the field together start preparation for the challenging season ahead. The OTA’s will include workouts, 7-on-7’s and heavy doses of fundamental work.
With key veterans from last year’s NFC South Champion team not on the roster anymore, OTA’s are expected to be the first chance for the new leaders to solidify their roles and separate themselves from the pack. Todd McClure, John Abraham, Michael Turner and Dunta Robinson were all key starters that will be replaced. The Falcons were the least penalized team in the league last season, and veteran leadership was a key part in that.
The already thin linebacker corps will be especially slimmed down during OTA’s while Stephen Nicholas and Sean Weatherspoon nurse surgically their repaired injuries. Nicholas had a sports hernia operation and Weatherspoon had arthoscopic knee surgery. The Falcons have a mandatory minicamp June 18 to June 20 in which the linebackers are expected to practice.
POTENTIAL BARGAINS …
The pool of NFL free agents is swimming with veteran talent and valuable pieces that Falcons could insert into the 2013 roster. A factor for Atlanta’s hesitation has been the salary cap space that will inflate to $6 million starting June 1. Rumors have circulated around defensive tackle Richard Seymour showing interest in coming to Atlanta. The seven-time Pro Bowler turns 34 this year, but could be a valuable piece to add into the defensive line rotation. Seymour played at University of Georgia and is familiar with Thomas Dimitroff from his days with the New England Patriots. Whether or not a deal is made, it is clear that the management is still combing the market for potential roster improvements.
SPEND THE CHEESE …
The city of Atlanta issued $200 million worth of public funds to help get the Falcons’ new stadium built, and last week the NFL owners approved an additional $200 million load that will go towards the stadium. The plan to open it in 2017 will land Atlanta a future Super Bowl.
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