One of the lingering questions at training camp will be which linebacker establishes themselves as the starter alongside Kaden Elliss.
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Among several other defensive issues, the lack of speed and range at the linebacker position proved to be costly for the Falcons last season. Another injury-plagued season for Troy Andersen derailed the coaching staff’s vision for the position. It forced Kaden Elliss to play in a more traditional three-down role, which isn’t ideal for a player with his skill set.
As well as he produced as a blitzer, the coverage responsibilities and poor support around him neutralized his overall impact. Nate Landman’s decline made matters worse for a defense that couldn’t get off the field.
Andersen will get one more opportunity to earn his place at the heart of the defense. There is added competition with the signing of Divine Deablo, who is expected to provide quality experience and athleticism. Per ESPN’s Marc Raimondi, Deablo stood out in OTAs as a legitimate starter. It raises the question of who will start between two intriguing linebackers who have good skill sets but struggled with injuries and reading the game at times. Who do you believe will become the starter next to Elliss?