Veteran linebacker Josh Woods was recognized for his play in Atlanta’s preseason opener vs. Detroit.
Last week’s preseason opener between the Atlanta Falcons and the Detroit Lions was a physical matchup that ended prematurely following an injury scare. The Falcons lost the game but had to be pleased with the way their defense performed in the first half.
Linebacker Josh Woods led the team in tackles and was constantly around the ball making plays. He forced one of Atlanta’s two forced fumbles against the Lions, and was one of four players to earn an elite Pro Football Focus grade (92.1) for his performance.
While the Falcons didn’t play their full starting defense in the opener, several key players, including David Onyemata, Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., played in the first half. Woods’ big outing earned him a spot on Pro Football Sports Network’s list of outstanding players from Week 1 of the preseason.
Falcons LB Josh Woods praised by PFSN:
Entering his seventh season in the NFL, Josh Woods has not established himself as a consistent contributor. But if he can keep up his play from the Atlanta Falcons’ first preseason game, he may be in line for more reps than ever. Though the game was suspended due to injury, Woods recorded game highs in total tackles (seven) and solo tackles (six), repeatedly finding himself opportunities to finish the play. He also forced a fumble, making the sort of splash play that catches the eye of coaches. – Bjorn Bergstrom, Pro Football Sports Network
Woods will look to keep that momentum going when the Falcons take on the Tennessee Titans this Friday in Atlanta. The veteran linebacker has a solid chance to make the 53-man roster if he turns in another big-time performance against Tennessee.
The Falcons and the Titans held their second joint practice on Wednesday and things got a bit heated. While training camp fights are nothing new, especially during joint practices, fans were surprised to learn that quarterback Michael Penix Jr. even got in the mix.
Ultimately, it was a successful set of practices ahead of the team’s second preseason game. We’ll see who steps on Friday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.