Atlanta Falcons: Three things to watch against the Pittsburgh Steelers

Atlanta Falcons: Three things to watch against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second week of 2017 NFL Preseason action for the defending NFC Champs

With the Atlanta Falcons ready to get Week 2 of the preseason underway, here we will look at three different things to keep an eye on as they battle the Pittsburgh Steelers. Starting with the debut of their high-profile first round pick — defensive end Takkarist McKinley.

Takkarist McKinley

We are expected to get our first look at 1st-round draft pick Takkarist McKinley this Sunday. The defensive end out of UCLA underwent surgery in March and it was anticipated that he could miss the start of the regular season. However, McKinley has made good progress in his recovery and is at the point now where he can almost practice at 100%.

McKinley had a break-out final year at UCLA, notching up 10 sacks, 18 tackles for a loss and forcing 3 fumbles. The Falcons are hopeful that he can bring this same productivity at the next level. All the pieces are in place for McKinley to succeed early. He will be lining up opposite last year’s sack leader edge rusher Vic Beasley as well as playing in front of a promising secondary.

Head Coach Dan Quinn will likely limit McKinley’s snaps as a precaution. But keep an eye on where he is lining up and how the Steelers adjust if both McKinley and Beasley are on the field at the same time.