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Cover 9@9: Are the Falcons rushing their rookies onto the field?

Atlanta Journal-Constitution | September 7, 2016

Related Topics: Nickelback (gridiron football), Sean Weatherspoon, Paul Worrilow, Dan Quinn (American football), Buffalo Bills, Atlanta Falcons, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Linebacker, Safety (gridiron football position), Rookie

The AJC’s D. Orlando Ledbetter and Noah Coslov preview Falcons-Bucs by talking about the Mike Smith difference, the biggest source of stress for Dan Quinn and the Falcons’ defensive game plan.

Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Deion Jones (45) works on his kick blocking skills during an NFL football practice Friday, July 29, 2016, in Flowery Branch, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

1. Microwave era. Back in the old NFL, teams took the time to develop their rookies before putting them on the field in high-profile positions.

Back in 1997, the Green Bay Packers played rookie defensive back Darren Sharper at nickel back until he was ready to take over at free safety the following season.

See full article at Atlanta Journal-Constitution