Falcons finalize a 17-man practice squad led by Easton Stick, a steadying presence as the third quarterback who can manage short-to-intermediate throws in a pinch. The group also stacks versatile depth on the line, at tackle, and in the edge/secondary, with several undrafted contributors and a few developmental projects ready to be called up for special-teams roles or injury relief.

Notable names include Carlos Washington, Chris Blair, Dylan Drummond, Nick Nash, Joshua Simon, and Carter Warren, plus veteran-insurance options at tackle and a handful of pass-rush and coverage pieces like Kentavius Street and Ronnie Perkins. Lenny Krieg provides an IPP kicker path, giving Atlanta a long-term kicking contingency while the squad stays flexible for the season.

The Falcons trimmed to 53 and lined up a plan for immediate tackle depth on the practice squad, signing Ryan Hayes and Carter Warren after waivers, and adding Michael Jerrell via trade. Nick Nash and Cobee Bryant were retained on the PS, with Lenny Krieg kept as international-pathway kicker insurance behind Younghoe Koo. Easton Stick was waived and Carlos Washington was cut, signaling a careful, development-forward approach to Week 1 roster depth.

The moves emphasize up-front versatility and player development over quick waiver adds, potentially unlocking late-blooming contributors on the practice squad and giving the Falcons a clearer path to fill-in options if injuries hit early in the season.

Kansas’ defensive backs room is in a reset as Brandon Shelby steers a young group through fall camp, replacing the veteran depth left by Cobee Bryant and Mello Dotson with freshmen and new contributors. The emphasis is on fundamental detail—alignment, eye discipline, and sharp communication—especially when motion and shifts complicate reads. The nickel spot features Mason Ellis, Syeed Gibbs, and Laquan Robinson competing to prove they can both press and protect in pass coverage, a sign of KU’s evolving strategy. DJ Graham II, the transfer from Utah State via Oklahoma, provides leadership and a calming presence, helping younger players stay focused and learn in real time, even in the new stadium environment. This mix of on-field guidance and high-competition drills sets the stage for a defense that will lean on its cohesion as the season approaches.

Graham’s veteran influence isn’t just verbal; his game experience translates into practical teaching on the sideline and in adjustments when KU goes to the box or faces substitution errors. Shelby highlighted the challenge of keeping linebackers and backs in sync and avoiding backfield peeks that can doom a play, especially against fast, dynamic athletes. The depth chart at nickel is unsettled but promising, with Ellis blending intelligence with physicality, Gibbs delivering versatility, and Robinson pushing for reps. As camp winds down, KU’s back seven will be tested by a schedule featuring quick, multi-part offenses, and the coaching staff seems determined to keep the rotation competitive until game week.

The Atlanta Falcons have announced the activation of cornerback Cobee Bryant and defensive lineman LaCale London from the non-football injury list, allowing them to rejoin practice after missing the first three days of training camp. Both players, undrafted free agent Bryant from Kansas and London, are aiming for spots on the final 53-man roster as they work to impress during the upcoming training sessions.

However, the Falcons faced some attendance issues during practice, notably without first-round pick Jalon Walker and veteran cornerback Keith Taylor. Walker, who has been termed as undergoing 'modifications', missed the last two practices, but defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich assured he is focusing on his physical preparation. Meanwhile, Taylor, a recent signing from the Kansas City Chiefs, is also missing from the field.

Undrafted free agents often go unnoticed during the NFL Draft, but their potential impact on rosters can be significant. Teams are keen to sign these players, often offering substantial guarantees to secure their talents. Notable success stories in recent seasons, including Jalen Coker of the Panthers and Omar Speights of the Rams, illustrate the valuable contributions these players can make.

This year's crop of undrafted free agents includes standout prospects like Efton Chism III of the Patriots, a slot receiver who has impressed coaches and teammates alike with his connection to quarterback Drake Maye. Others, like Cobee Bryant of the Falcons and Jared Ivey of the Seahawks, showcase the depth of talent across various positions. As training camps approach, the competition for these roster spots will intensify, making it essential for these rookies to prove their value.