There is a growing belief that the Falcons will have one new starting linebacker this season.
Improved linebacker play will be required for the Falcons’ defense to make notable strides this season. It was one of the primary areas where they didn’t make enough stops against the run or plays in coverage. As versatile as Kaden Elliss is, his athletic limitations make him best suited to playing closer to the line of scrimmage. That makes it imperative that the linebacker alongside him possesses legitimate range in coverage and can make sideline-to-sideline plays.
Troy Andersen and Divine Deablo will be the two players competing to earn their starting place next to the growing fan favorite. Considering how much the coaching staff has spoken highly of both players, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them both counted as contributors. There still needs to be a definitive starter at a position with massive responsibilities.
It’s well-documented that this is a make-or-break year for Andersen following two injury-plagued seasons. For all the glimpses of high-level play, he hasn’t been on the field to attempt to fulfill his potential. That pushed the organization to sign a linebacker with credible starting experience in Deablo. His athletic traits make him a suitable candidate not only to push Andersen but even supplant him as the projected starter. The fans certainly believe so.
Whether it’s due to encouraging offseason reports for Deablo or the lack of faith in Andersen’s ability to stay healthy, the results are noteworthy. Andersen was considered a potential defensive cornerstone going into last year. It’s now a realistic possibility he won’t be starting going into this season. While Deablo didn’t shine in Las Vegas, there’s enough on film to believe an ascendance could be there. Time will tell for what should be an intriguing training camp battle.
Do you believe Deablo will start alongside Elliss, or will Andersen earn one more chance to prove himself? Let us know below.
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