The Atlanta Falcons continued OTAs Wednesday as the defense starts to get acquainted with its new defensive coordinator, Ryan Nelson. Safety Richie Grant spoke with 92.9 The Game’s Dukes and Bell where he stated that Nelson has a “Fiery energy about him…and (the players) are just trying to go out there and imitate it, so it’s gonna be a real good time playing with him this year.”
The team appears to be excited about the changes and the energy is visibly on display so far during OTAs.
Last season, under the guidance of former defensive coordinator Dean Pees, the Falcons' defense struggled, ranking 27th in total defense, 25th in pass defense, 23rd in run defense, 23rd in scoring and 31st in sacks. However, with Nelson taking over, there is optimism for improvement.
Nelson will have some new players at his disposal, including Calais Campbell, Jessie Bates III, and linebacker Kaden Elliss, who previously played for the New Orleans Saints. Elliss is regarded as a hidden gem by Bleacher Report, particularly for his ability to effectively blitz in this defensive scheme.
The Falcons are looking forward to the upcoming season and the potential impact of the new defensive coordinator and the acquisitions made to bolster the defense.