Falcons Training Camp: Harrison, Pass Rush Shines in Pads

FLOWERY BRANCH -- The last time the Atlanta Falcons' defense took the field in pads was Jan. 8, nearly seven months ago, and left then-defensive coordinator Dean Pees feeling like his unit played to the caliber of a top-10 bunch.

And while there are many new faces, starting with defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, the group picked up where it left off, limiting explosive plays and holding the offense to several short gains, be it through the air or on the ground.

For a recap of the offense's performance, CLICK HERE.

The defensive line won one-on-ones against the offensive line, highlighted by rookie third-round pick Zach Harrison bull-rushing second-year offensive tackle Tyler Vrabel into the ground, sending the defense into a frenzy.

Harrison was also impressive during the team portion, beating right tackle Jalen Mayfield around the corner to win a pass rush rep, showing his ability to win with both nuance and power. He drew praise from coach Arthur Smith after the day for his presence.

Elsewhere in ones, rookie offensive guard Matthew Bergeron said that defensive tackle David Onyemata gave him his "welcome to the NFL" moment with a big bull rush.

Veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett looked like the player that everyone's grown to expect and continues to draw praise from coaches and teammates for his leadership and presence in the room.

Newly signed defensive end Kemoko Turay had a good second practice in Atlanta, particularly showing well in run defense, while outside linebacker Bud Dupree had a would-be sack that wasn't called.

As a result of a strong day from the defensive line, Atlanta's linebackers controlled the running game, with Troy Andersen, Kaden Elliss and Nate Landman all making plays within their individual run fits.

Elliss lost a rep in coverage against running back Bijan Robinson, but otherwise had a sound day at the office. Landman was a notable standout and appears to be the favorite in the clubhouse to win the No. 4 linebacker spot, sitting behind Elliss, Anderson and Mykal Walker, who had a steady showing.

Also of note in the linebacker's room, DeAngelo Malone saw significant action at weakside but remained an on-ball player; seeing how his role progresses throughout camp will be interesting.

Atlanta's secondary was impressive, with Ridder largely being forced to take underneath patterns. Jeff Okudah had a good day, showing quick feet and fluid hips, while Dee Alford was a clear standout at nickel with tremendous physicality from the first whistle onward.

Rookie fourth-round pick Clark Phillips has been a clear standout in camp and continued to show well Monday, though he lost a rep to Drake London on a jump ball that netted a touchdown for the offense to close one-on-ones.

The other contender at nickel corner apart from Alford and Phillips is veteran Mike Hughes, who had a quiet day defensively but was first up in punt return drills and may have the inside track to that job.

Monday was nose tackle Justin Ellis' first day as a Falcon after signing over the weekend; the 6-2, 350-pounder is filling the void left by Eddie Goldman, who retired for the second time in as many years last week.

Cornell Armstrong previously drew praise from Smith for his performance to kick off camp and was once again impressive, knocking away a pass late in the session and consistently proving to be in good position.

It was a relatively even session but Atlanta's defense felt like it was sounder and had more splash plays than the offense, starting with Harrison and progressing from thereon.

The Falcons will return to the practice field Tuesday at IBM Performance Center, officially turning the calendar to August in advance of the preseason opener on Aug. 11.