Atlanta Falcons: Projecting the defensive starters

Ricardo Allen – FS

Aug 28, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Mike Brown (12) catches a pass as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Ricardo Allen (37) defends in the fourth quarter of their game at EverBank Field. The Atlanta Falcons won 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports

Ricardo Allen may be the surprise pick of this Falcons offense, but I have a very good feeling Allen finds himself into the starting role at free safety by week one. But, it is nothing set in stone whatsoever. Allen will be competing with Kemal Ishmael, Dezmen Southward and Charles Godfrey for the position.

Here is why Allen wins the job. While Ishamel had a great 2014, he isn’t a free safety. He flourishes as a strong safety and doesnt have the motor to cover ground in this position. Southward is likely to be moved to a nickle corner role and Godfrey just doesn’t have it left in the tank to start at free safety anymore.

Allen didn’t even make the team in 2014 as a rookie, but has already received high praise from Quinn an the rest of the staff in OTA’s and mini camp. This will be a very intriguing battle as training camp nears so keep an eye out for this group.