Atlanta Falcons: Five biggest training camp battles for 2016

Deion Jones vs. Paul Worrilow vs. Brooks Reed 

The battle for the starting middle linebacker spot may be the most watched battle throughout not only trading camp but preseason as well. The drafting of Jones was interesting based on his size (near 230 pounds) but there is no doubt that the former LSU Tiger brings much needed speed and athleticism to the group. What will be key for him during this offseason is if he’s able to add much needed and if he can, how much can his skill enhance the defense.

Worrilow has posted impressive tackle numbers the past three seasons but to doesn’t take long to notice that Worrilow is not a natural fit in the defense with his limited athleticism, speed, and deficiencies in pass defense.

In his defense, he is the veteran and knows the scheme more than Jones so there may be a slight advantage in favor of Worrilow. Reed is listed because there have been rumblings of Reed making the move to middle linebacker and Reed has the skills to make the move and be an improvement over Worrilow but injuries has been his kryptonite over the course of his career, including last season. It’s going to be interesting to see how many snaps he gets at the position this offseason.

Prediction: Deion Jones – Eventually, Jones speed and agility will overshadow Worrilow’s grit and in  this scheme, Jones fits like a glove. 

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