Atlanta Falcons minicamp is officially underway, and it has been nothing but positive news over the first two days. First and foremost, the whole team showed up. Vic Beasley Jr., Julio Jones, Grady Jarrett, and Deion Jones all skipped OTAs. Dan Quinn expected all of them to be present for mandatory minicamp, but some were more of a sure-thing than others.
Grady Jarrett was the one Quinn seemed the most concerned about holding out, as the star defensive tackle is scheduled to play under the franchise tag this year. While little has been reported about Jarrett’s contract situation in the last couple of months, his timely presence hopefully signals the two sides are working diligently on reaching an extension. The deadline for that to happen is in just over a month – July 15th.
Standout Rookie
The Falcons may have surprised their fan base by taking guard Chris Lindstrom with the 14th overall pick, but the rookie has come as advertised in Dan Quinn’s eyes. This is what Quinn had to say regarding Lindstrom at Tuesday’s press conference.
I asked Dan Quinn about Chris Lindstrom's development — he was really, really high on Chris. #Falcons
— Kelsey Conway (@FalconsKelsey) June 11, 2019
Dan Quinn says Chris Lindstrom “has had a helluva start.” Says he’s come along about as quickly as a rookie could. #Falcons
— William McFadden (@willmcfadden) June 11, 2019
Lindstrom will be a starting guard – most likely the right one for the Falcons. It’s promising that he’s off to such a hot start, but this draft will not be deemed a success if Kaleb McGary isn’t performing just as well. Atlanta needs both of their first-round picks to solidify the right side of the offensive line and allow their multitude of weapons time to work.
Grady Jarrett happy to be back
If there is any animosity surrounding Grady Jarrett’s contract situation, he’s not making it known. The Falcons defensive tackle said he was thrilled to be around his teammates again. He also talked about how much he loves having Dan Quinn more involved with the defensive schemes.
Grady says “it’s exciting” to have Dan Quinn working more closely with the defensive line. Says he’s noticed a few more wrinkles. #Falcons
— William McFadden (@willmcfadden) June 11, 2019
Vic Beasley was working out with Bud Dupree this offseason
If you are wondering why Vic Beasley was not at OTAs; it might have had something to do with Steelers defensive end Bud Dupree – who Beasley says he has been working out with this offseason. Both are in contract years and have been underwhelming since being drafted back in 2015. Like the Steelers, the Falcons hope Beasley can have a resurgence and make their $12.8 million bet a fruitful one.
Beasley says he does not feel any added pressure because of his situation.
Vic Beasley says he doesn’t feel any pressure heading into the season; “I just want to ball out.” He’s been working out with Bud Dupree this offseason. #Falcons pic.twitter.com/RjxgnWTKts
— William McFadden (@willmcfadden) June 11, 2019
I’m not entirely sure if that is a positive or negative statement. I guess we will find out when the whistle blows in week one.
Julio Jones is not worried about his contract
There was no holdout this year from Julio Jones, and in his mind, it is pretty simple. He is not concerned about a contract extension because owner Arthur Blank has said it will get done. When the boss speaks, Jones knows he means business.
Julio Jones said he doesnt need to talk about his contract situation because Arthur Blank has spoken and said the deal will get done. pic.twitter.com/SRn34aiQo8
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) June 11, 2019