The Atlanta Falcons released their first official depth chart ahead of Friday's preseason game with the Tennessee Titans and some of the positioning raised more than a few eyebrows.
Among the listings that had people talking was the role of Kyle Pitts, who was not listed as a starting tight end.
A few other notable designations are listed below:
• Kaleb McGary is listed behind Willie Beavers at RT
• Cordarrelle Patterson still listed as a RB and second-string back, Ollison fourth
• AJ McCarron listed as the second QB, with Feleipe Franks third
• Josh Andrews listed as starting LG followed by Sam Jones
• Steven Means starting at OLB, ahead of Dante Fowler Jr.
• CB opposite AJ Terrell is listed as Fabian Moreau, Isaiah Oliver is backup
• Erik Harris has the other safety spot ahead of T.J. Green and Richie Grant
• Kendall Sheffield is third-string CB behind Terrell and Chris Williamson
• Duron Harmon is listed ahead of Jaylinn Hawkins at one safety spot
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While there is certain to be some immediate overreactions to how Arthur Smith views his starting offense and defense, remember that this is the first depth chart and not the final one.
John and Hugh discuss the Falcons first depth chart and how rapidly it can become re-organized as the preseason rolls on.
With the starters expected to only play a few snaps in the first preseason game, it shouldn't be a surprise that a few players, especially young ones, are a bit lower on the depth chart to ensure the staff sees a few more snaps out of them.
For guys like safety Richie Grant or WR Frank Darby, not being at the desired position in the depth chart really just means they'll play a full half (most likely) on Friday evening.
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For the few veterans, it's a reminder that the preseason is a time to prove it and with a new staff a shot to impress.
Fowler, who missed the start of camp while he was on the COVID/Reserve list, needs to showcase his talents in the new defensive scheme.
For the rest, there are still two preseason games and multiple practices before Week 1 to make a statement to Coach Smith that they deserve to be higher on the depth chart.