The Atlanta Falcons entered the offseason with one clear goal: improving their pass rush after a disappointing performance last year. They addressed that need in the draft, selecting James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker in the first round. While Walker brings versatility, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich already has a clear plan for how he’ll be used.
“On first and second down, I want, especially Jalon, to really have an opportunity to just master playing on the edge because I think that there’s something there that’s really special,” Ulbrich said. “Give him an opportunity just to have one home initially and become as good as he can at that. Then, from a third-down perspective, we can get creative with him, and that’ll be part of his superpower.”
On Sunday, Walker missed practice due to an undisclosed injury, raising some concern. However, Ulbrich downplayed the issue.
“There’s just working on some stuff with his body but he’s going to be alright,” Ulbrich told the media.
On Thursday morning, head coach Raheem Morris provided clarity, finally revealing the reason behind Walker’s absence.
“Raheem Morris says Jalon Walker has a minor hamstring issue. Says he's ‘chomping at the bit’ to get out there, but the team is holding him back out of precaution,” Falcons staff writer Will McFadden posted.
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Morris also noted that Walker is pushing hard to return to the field, but the team is choosing caution over risk.
“The kid wants to go out there and I won't let him... He is wearing me out trying to get out there at practice,” Morris said.
Walker needs to be careful — hamstring injuries can linger if not treated properly. It’s still early in the preseason, and the Falcons are taking no chances. Walker is expected to be a major force in his rookie year, and rushing him back too soon could jeopardize that. Holding him out now could be the key to keeping him dominant — and healthy — when it matters most.