While Michael Penix Jr. has been the focus early in Falcons training camp, Atlanta may have struck gold on the defensive side of the ball. James Pearce Jr., Atlanta's first-round pick, has been impressive through the first week of camp.

The Atlanta Falcons roster last year was supposed to be comprised of a playoff-caliber team. This season has been deemed by many as a very crucial and pivotal year for the Atlanta Falcons. The team hasn't made the playoffs since 2017,

Unlike last year, Michael Penix Jr. entered camp as the starting quarterback ahead of Kirk Cousins. Penix made sure to feed the ball to Pitts, who shined on Day 1. Wide receiver Darnell Mooney fell hard early in practice and was replaced by Chris Blair.