Safety Jessie Bates III remained out for a fourth consecutive day of practice due to a back issue, as the Falcons' training camp drama unfolded on Day 9.
Injury Updates
Safety DeMarcco Hellams took over Bates' role with the first team, while DL Zach Harrison was activated and cleared to return to practice, bringing some good news to the injury front. RT Jawaan Taylor remains out on the PUP list, along with RT Wanya Morris.
Practice was interrupted by a lightning strike in the area, prompting an early end to the session at around 8:10 p.m. The capacity crowd had been eagerly watching the team's 11-on-11 drills, which were the main attraction of the evening.
Tua Tagovailoa Shines in 11s
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa looked sharp in the 11-on-11 periods, going 6-8 in scrimmage, including 2-3 during an early red zone portion. He threw touchdowns to WR Jahan Dotson and WR Drake London, who operated out of the slot on one of the plays.
Tagovailoa's best throw of the day came on a layered pass that traveled over 35 yards in the air and landed in the hands of WR Olamide Zaccheaus. London and Dotson were the only players to catch multiple passes with the first team.
Bijan Robinson Makes the Crowd Erupt
Running back Bijan Robinson made a strong impression with a 55-yard touchdown run, which had the capacity crowd cheering loudly. He had a later play where he turned the corner for a decent gain, showcasing his shiftiness in the open field.
The team's most dangerous offensive threat, Robinson bounced back quickly after a fumble on his first play of 11s. He and Tagovailoa both recovered well, with Robinson going on to have a successful evening.
Young Defensive Linemen Have Their Moments
The defense was not without its own victories, with DT Brandon Dorlus getting to the quarterback multiple times already throughout the camp. He took down Tagovailoa for a sack, while DT Maason Smith had a big push up the middle that caved in the offensive line.
Smith also beat C Ryan Neuzil in a one-on-one drill, while EDGE James Pearce Jr. impressed with his speed move on Michael Jarrel. Pearce got more work with the first team defense today after spending time with the second team early on in camp.
Other Notes
K Nick Folk remained automatic, kicking in at least three field goals during the evening's field goal drills. The veteran free agent signing has been a reliable presence for the team so far in training camp.
The Falcons will continue their training camp with Day 10, which promises to be an exciting day for the team and its fans. With the injury updates and impressive performances from players like Tagovailoa and Robinson, the competition is heating up, and it will be interesting to see how the team fares in the coming days.
Source: Yahoo Sports