The clock is ticking for the Atlanta Falcons. The NFL’s 53-man roster deadline drops in just two days, and that preseason finale against the Dolphins? It’s the absolute last shot for a bunch of guys fighting to stick around, whether in Atlanta or somewhere else. With Michael Penix Jr. out for Friday’s game, former MSU-Moorhead standout Jack Strand has every chance to cement his place as the third quarterback on the roster, having gone from unknown to a mythical figure in a week. Strand’s play has absolutely warranted the hype, especially after he went 12-for-17 for 212 yards against the Colts last weekend, throwing the ball all over the field. This kid is making a statement.
Depth Pieces Fighting to Stick
Beyond the QB drama, defensive tackle Carlos Allen Jr. is poised to benefit big time. The Falcons are thin at his position, and this undrafted free agent has already turned heads. He crushed it during joint practices with the Colts, then put up two tackles and one TFL in their 34-6 victory last Saturday. The Falcons desperately need quality reps along their D-line interior, and if Allen can deliver in Miami, he is making that initial 53-man roster.
Then there’s Vinny Anthony III. The dude impressed everyone with his return skills throughout training camp. There was a reason the Falcons coughed up a guaranteed $260,000 to sign him after the 2026 NFL Draft. In his preseason debut, Anthony averaged a mind-blowing 30 yards on three kick returns for 90 yards. Last week against the Colts, he added another 28-yard return to go with four catches for 43 receiving yards. Special teams often gets overlooked by fans, but coaches? They don’t miss a thing on film, and Anthony is making himself impossible to ignore.
DeWalt’s Big Shot
Malcolm DeWalt IV seemed like a total long shot early on, thanks to a serious logjam at cornerback. But man, has he turned it around. DeWalt has played himself firmly onto the bubble with some seriously impressive preseason performances. The former Akron standout has great size and some flashy ball skills; in his final college season, he snagged two interceptions, defended eight passes, and forced a fumble.
He’s listed at 6’2″ and 190lbs, known for his “great Gunner ability,” his knack for fitting the run, mirroring receivers, and making up for any “body deficiencies with footwork.” He’s a potential depth piece who’s already showing he can make the team. If he can pull off another big game against the Dolphins, DeWalt very well might make the roster.
It all comes down to Friday’s exhibition against the Dolphins. For these four UDFAs, it’s not just another game, it’s the defining moment of their young careers. Who’s gonna step up and make the cut?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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