You could argue that everyone should've lost their job in the Atlanta Falcons' first preseason game. They came out of the tunnel confused and dead; they were anything but ready to take on the Denver Broncos.
Obviously, that is lip service, but it was a frustrating game to watch for any hopeful fan.
Moving forward, there are a few players who are on a downward trajectory and could lose their jobs when the second preseason game concludes against the Indianapolis Colts.
Falcons should give up on these three players with another dismal performance
1. Cooper Rush - QB
The overall performance for the Falcons' quarterbacks was poor, but Cooper Rush was the headliner. The veteran backup didn't show anything to make us think he could be an emergency passer if Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. get injured -- again.
The former Cowboy finished 7-for-19 for 62 yards and two interceptions, including the 97-yard pick-six. It was unfortunate for him because he started to get things going on that drive after his first interception. But that play ultimately spoiled things.
The Falcons should be figuring out a backup plan for their No. 3. If they could somehow convince Jimmy Garoppolo to be the backup to the backup, that would be excellent. But Clayton Tune and Desmond Ridder (yes, I said it) are more realistic options.
2. Michael Jerrell - OT
Much like the other offensive tackles, it was not a pretty day for Michael Jerrell. The right tackle was beaten by a strong Broncos pass rush, which played a part in the quarterback struggles.
The Dirty Birds have a backup to Jawaan Taylor in Wanya Morris and love what they have seen with Riley Mahlman. It is a big position to fill. Taylor is coming off an injury, and the right side is the blindside. But Jerrell doesn't figure to be in the plans for much longer.
3. Channing Tindall - LB
Channing Tindall was signed as a core special teamer and an emergency linebacker. Now, he is heading toward a release.
The Falcons have a deep unit with Divine Deablo, Christian Harris, JD Bertrand, Kendal Daniels, Harold Perkins Jr., and Josh Woods. Each of those names gets the nod over Tindall. And you certainly won't keep seven off-ball linebackers -- unfortunately, it is obvious where things are headed for the journeyman.
Honestly, there isn't much reason to keep him around because there isn't much of a competition at Jeff Ulbrich's favorite position.
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