6 things we learned during a week in Miami

Defensive front set a new standard in Miami

For many of the Falcons’ camp sessions at their practice facility, the new-look offense has been the main takeaway. When the team headed south, the script flipped. Not to say Atlanta’s offense didn’t have its moments, it’s just that the defense maintained a level of play that was truly impressive. From the first joint practice through the preseason game, the Falcons’ front largely controlled their gaps against the run and generated a consistent amount of pressure on Miami’s quarterbacks. They wanted to set a standard during the trip, and it certainly felt like they did.

Grady Jarrett was a standout in joint work and continues to impress in his return to play after last year’s season-ending injury. He was among the many starters who didn’t play Friday night, but that only allowed reserve pieces like Kentavius Street, Demone Harris and Tommy Togaia to put some good reps on tape. Second-year defensive lineman Zach Harrison is another player who played well in the exhibition game. He’s bulked up this offseason for a different type of role in 2024, but the former 5-star recruit and third-round draft pick could be a key young piece for Atlanta’s defense.

Kirk Cousins challenging Kyle Pitts

One revelation that should excite Falcons fans and fantasy football heads, alike, was just how hard Cousins is pushing his newest weapon at tight end. Pitts is entering an important year, and it’s clear from the work he’s put in during camp that he’s aware of that fact. Cousins is the most established quarterback Pitts has worked with since Matt Ryan in 2021, and he’s using that credibility to demand the most of the former No. 4 pick.

“I always say, ‘Did you run as fast as you possibly can and did you snag it with your hands aggressive?'” Cousins said. “Those are the two things I challenge him on. I said, ‘If you do that, the production can’t help but happen.'”

That wasn’t the only revelation Cousins shared. Although he didn’t play in Atlanta’s first preseason game – and it remains to be seen if he’ll play at all before Week 1 – Cousins did reflect upon his debut in such a game back in 2012.

The TEs not named Pitts are doing OK, too

A pretty fun down-depth-chart competition taking place in training camp features the tight ends behind Pitts. Charlie Woerner, who did not play against the Dolphins on Friday night, is listed on the team’s depth chart as…