Falcons fans get a high-stakes, close-quarters look at roster battles as Atlanta closes out the preseason. Xavier Watts edges Jordan Fuller and Xavier Watts is the rookie they’ve chased for months, a signal the Falcons see a future at safety. Dee Alford holds the nickel spot, though Billy Bowman and the defense aren’t ready to hand over the job. Younghoe Koo’s health and consistency lock in the kicker role, while Easton Stick is the obvious QB3 option with Amory Jones out of the competition.

Divine Deablo is set to play nearly every down, anchoring the inside linebacker corps as Andersen’s injury leaves the depth chart unsettled. In outside linebacker, Leonard Floyd, Arnold Ebiketie and Bralen Trice form a core, with Jalon Walker and DeAngelo Malone cross-training at inside linebacker as special-teams value. Up front, Orhorhoro and Onyemata start, but reserve rotation is plenty busy. The punt/kick return battle leans toward Jamal Agnew if healthy, with Ray-Ray McCloud as a strong Week 1 contingency. The backfield and receiver depth offer flexible options as Casey Washington and Nate Carter push for meaningful roles.