Atlanta Falcons Podcast Network

Falcons rookie left guard Matthew Bergeron joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss life growing up in Quebec, Canada, and how he was introduced to football, got a scholarship to Syracuse as a complete unknown and overcame a language barrier as a native French speaker after coming to the United States. 00:00 - Intro 00:25 - Falcons French 101 02:46 - Journey from Canada to play in NFL 12:22 - Learning English & language of Football 15:46 - Getting First Start 19:20 - COVID & Importance of Family 21:30 - Draft night & representing Canada See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ break into the Falcons vs. Texans game identifying the game MVPs, matchup highlights, evaluating Desmond Ridder's performance, and discussing the keys to a week 6 victory vs the Washington Commanders.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack break down the Falcons big, come-from-behind win over the Houston Texans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Demond Ridder’s role in it. The second-year quarterback silenced some skeptic with the best performance of his professional career, rebounding well after two subpar performances prompted questions about a possible QB change. We detail the game-winning drive, Younghoe Koo’s decisive field goal, Kyle Pitts, Drake London and another solid defensive performance by Ryan Nielsen’s crew. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, recapping how Falcons beat Texans (00:01:05): Evaluating Desmond Ridder’s performance vs. Houston (00:06:10): How Falcons found rhythm in the passing game (00:08:20): Breaking down game-winning drive, Younghoe Koo’s FG (00:12:58): Bijan Robinson proving human before going superhuman again (00:16:35): What must get better to beat Washington CommandersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Edge rusher Bud Dupree joins Scott and Tori to discuss life growing up in middle Georgia and the importance of being a role model to those from his community. He also discusses his business ventures outside of football, including a restaurant and a record label, and how he got a street named after him in his hometown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott, Tori and Terrin evaluate the good and the bad from the Falcons first four games, which produced a 2-2 record, in the latest episode of Falcons Final Whistle. They evaluate quarterback Desmond Ridder, running back Bijan Robinson and a stout Falcons defense, plus they identify what must improve heading into the next four-game stretch. 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Topics 02:30 - Quick recap of how the Falcons got to 2-2 06:35 - How fans can BOGO Big Zax snack at next home game 07:05- State of Atlanta Falcons Defense 12:05 - Bijan Robinson & the offense 15:45 - Areas to grow 27:50 - Upcoming four game stretch vs. HOU, WASH, TB, TENSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ break down the Falcons vs. Jaguars game and highlight notable players, evaluate the Falcons losses and discover common themes that ran through both games, and discuss the path to redemption in week 5 as the Falcons prepare to face the Texans. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons defensive lineman Ta'Quon Graham joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss how family and his upbringing in Texas allowed him to thrive and realize his dream of playing NFL football. He also talked about his love of food and how Grady Jarrett has helped him thrive at the professional level.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the positives and challenges during the Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions matchup, how the Falcons can get back on track against the Jacksonville Jaguars while on the road in London, as well as take a brief look at the NFC South. 00:00 - Intro 00:15 - Topics 01:00 - Positives from Falcons vs Lions matchup 04:28 - Where Falcons faced challenges 13:18 - How to get back on track vs Jaguars 20:30 - Keys to Week 4 Falcons victory over Jaguars 26:51 - NFC South overviewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack break down what went wrong in the Falcons’ 20-6 loss to Detroit in Week 3 and why they weren’t able to play the complementary football required to beat a team like the Lions. The offense couldn’t find rhythm in the passing game and didn’t have a run game to fall back on, creating a stagnant attack that struggled despite the score being close until the end. They also take a look at what must improve as the Falcons head into a crucial Week 4 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, what went wrong vs. Lions (00:02:10): Why Falcons weren’t able to play complementary football (00:04:20): Why couldn’t Falcons find offensive rhythm (00:09:18): Breaking down Desmond Ridder’s performance vs. Lions (00:12:50): The good and just-okay from Falcons defensive performance (00:17:45): What must improve vs. Jaguars; difference between perfect and complete gamesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Assistant head coach -- defense Jerry Gray joins Tori McElhaney and Scott Bair for a career retrospective, where he tells great stories from his days playing at Texas and his storied NFL career, followed by his journey through the coaching ranks before ending up here in Atlanta.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the nostalgia of seeing the Atlanta Falcons in their throwback uniforms for week 2, shine a light on notable players from the Falcons vs. Packers game, break down the call that led to a Falcons victory, and discuss the challenges the Falcons may face in week 3 against the Lions and how to overcome those challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack detail how the Falcons were able to erase a two-score deficit in the fourth quarter and earn a late victory over the Green Bay Packers. They dive deep into the that comeback effort, which required positive contributions from the Falcons defense, quarterback Desmond Ridder and rookie offensive weapon Bijan Robinson. That discussion also focuses on Arthur Smith’s decisive fourth-down play that helped the Falcons come out on top. Then they move things forward and talk about what needs to be better to beat a tough Detroit Lions team and win a third straight game. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, reaction to big Falcons win (00:01:06): How Falcons got job done in fourth quarter (00:03:23): How to get a BOGO Big Zax Snak (00:04:31): Dissecting Arthur Smith’s key fourth-down decision (00:10:00): Bijan’s performance and how he’s building trust (00:15:27): Evaluating Desmond Ridder’s performance (00:20:37) What Falcons must improve to go 3-0See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons defensive lineman Calais Campbell sits down for an extended, in-depth conversation with Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney on the latest episode of Falcons in Focus. He talks about what's required to perform at a high level over so many years, entering fatherhood, his upbringing, the importance of paying it forward and even the origin story of his raspy voice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the Falcons home opener, the top players on both sides of the ball from the Falcons vs. Panthers game, the significance of this Falcons' victory, and areas of growth and focus for the Atlanta Falcons as they prepare for their week 2 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. 00:00 - Intro 00:40 - Topics 01:04 - Falcons home opener atmosphere 06:31 - Top performers of Panthers matchup 12:32 - Significance of Falcons victory 18:02 - Week 2 areas of growth & FocusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack detail what went right during a 24-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers and what needs to be better moving forward in this episode of the Falcons Final Whistle podcast presented by Zaxby's. They touch of Jessie Bates III’s exemplary performance, Kyle Pitts’ flashes, how Tyler Allgeier and Bijan Robinson carried the load and how the offense fine-tune itself after the passing game struggled throughout the contest. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro (00:01:35): Dissecting Jessie Bates III stellar Falcons debut (00:04:59): How to get a BOGO Big Zax Snak (00:06:02): Breaking down Tyler Allgeier, Bijan Robinson performance (00:10:00): Where can offense get better? (00:15:02): What we saw from Kyle Pitts’ return to regular-season game action (00:15:02): Why problems are more fixable than in recent seasons (00:18:35) How Falcons wore Panthers downSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier joins Tori McElhaney and Scott Bair to discuss his hobbies off the field, making lifelong friendships with teammates, his road to the NFL and family sacrifices, and going the extra mile to achieve his NFL dream.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the keys to an Atlanta Falcons victory over the Carolina Panthers, where the Falcons must step up as the season begins, and reminisce about their favorite season opener memories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

General manager Terry Fontenot sits down with Tori McElhaney to discuss the state of the Falcons after the initial 53-man roster was formed. He talks about Desmond Ridder, Bijan Robinson and the entire 2023 NFL Draft class, plus the importance of finding the "right 53" and staying disciplined consistent when it comes to the salary cap.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the initial 53-man roster and what it could mean for the Atlanta Falcons in the season ahead. 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Topics 01:29 - Describe this roster in three words 05:10 - Thoughts on current roster 13:48 - State of the offense 20:17 - State of the defense See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott, Tori and Terrin break down the Falcons initial 53-man roster, including standouts who earned a spot during camp, the biggest cuts and whether a deeper, vastly improved collection of talent can compete in the NFC South.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons safety Micah Abernathy joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss growing up as the grandson of civil rights activist Ralph David Abernathy and his family's strong connection to the city of Atlanta. He also breaks down the opportunity before him to make the Falcons 53-man roster and what it means to play for his hometown team on the latest episode of Falcons in Focus. 0:00 - Intro00:20 - Getting signed by the Atlanta Falcons2:06 - Experience playing in home town3:41 - Upbringing & Childhood memories in Atlanta5:15 - Influence from Michael Vick6:24 - Bearing the Abernathy name7:58 - Family Legacy in Atlanta8:53 - A Father’s love & Family Support11:11 - The legacy of Ralph David Abernathy13:55 - Restoring something special in Atlanta15:20 - Influential women16:13 - Building for the next generation18:15 - A journey ‘driven by faith’21:28 - Relationship with Jerry Gray22: 30 - Overcoming adversity23:30 - Building something special at Falcons26:45 - Training Camp rituals27:35 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ dive into the positive takeaways from the Atlanta Falcons vs Cincinnati Bengals matchup, the Falcons evolving offense, expectations for the final preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and what it takes to make the Atlanta Falcons 53-man roster.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the standouts from the Atlanta Falcons 19-3 victory against the Miami Dolphins, the Falcons evolving defense, and what to anticipate from the upcoming preseason matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. 0:00 - Intro1:00 - Standouts from win over Miami11:41 - Expectations for Bengals matchup21:55 - The evolving defense25:15 - Home stadium storiesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney break down the Falcons performance in a pair of joint practices against the Miami Dolphins in the latest training camp edition of the Falcons Final Whistle podcast. There’s tons of details about players who made a positive impression going up against another team, including Desmond Ridder, Bijan Robinson, Zach Harrison, Troy Andersen and more after two days of watching practices live from the Dolphins training complex. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, overall impressions of Falcons joint practices with Dolphins (00:03:34): Breaking down defensive effort, including David Onyemata and Jaylinn Hawkins (00:05:17): Desmond Ridder’s decision making; Bijan Robinson’s progress (00:09:55): Kyle Pitts’ ramp up, replacing Jeff Okudah (00:14:00): Evaluating Jerry Gray, Ryan Nielsen, Falcons defense up close (00:19:05): What we learned about joint practices; preseason previewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave and DJ dive into what is ahead for the 2023 AT&T Atlanta Falcons Training Camp joint practices with the Miami Dolphins, discuss why it’s important to build roster depth, and look ahead to the first preseason game against Miami. 00:00 - Intro 1:11 - AT&T Training Camp so far 9:56 - Injuries & building depth 16:33 - Joint practices with Miami 22:28 - Joint practice stories See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons linebacker Mykal Walker joins Scott and Tori to break down his solid start to camp, why he fits Ryan Nielsen's defense so well and what he enjoys about playing inside and outside linebacker. The fourth-year veteran also talks about how he gets through camp and next week's joint sessions with Miami. Plus, Scott and Tori break down the Falcons' first camp week in pads and which players stood out when the physicality ramped up.00:00 - Intro 00:20 - AT&T Training Camp so far 02:11 - Growth & evolving play 07:41 - Life at AT&T Training Camp 09:55 - Where players fit 11:50 - Pads are on at AT&T Training Camp 12:56 - Who & what is standing out?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons cornerback Dee Alford joins Scott and Tori on the first of several special training camp editions of the Falcons Final Whistle podcast to discuss the strides he has made in Year 2, why he takes nothing for granted and how he continues to improve. He also details camp life, his favorite snacks and players he learns from most. After that, Scott and Tori provide their first impressions of this camp and name early standouts this summer. 00:00-Intro00:19 - High Praise and underdog mentality 04:30 - Offseason work 06:18 - Depth & quality of secondary07:33 - Jerry Gray and Steve Jackon’s advice09:38 - Training Camp life21:10 - Week 1 Standouts25:05 - Pads onSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave and DJ dive into what is ahead for the 2023 AT&T Atlanta Falcons Training Camp, discuss Arthur Smith’s coaching evolution, debate our biggest offseason wins and reflect on fun memories from their own training camp experiences. 00:00 - Intro 00:35 - Topics01:20 - Training Camp in 3 words 04:13 - Position battles ahead 09:39 - Coaching Evolution 16:26 - Biggest ‘wins’ in the offseason 21:47 - Training Camp Stories See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney zero in on the defense in this week's Final Whistle podcast. How obvious was the added help for Grady Jarrett across the defensive line throughout the OTA period? What could 2023 hold for Jeff Okudah? And how fierce is the competition between Dee Alford and Mike Hughes for the starting nickel job? The Falcons editorial staff discusses as the league gears up for training camp.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney sit down to go over what they learned about the Falcons offense through the OTA period, as well as what questions they still have about the unit. What could 2023 hold for Desmond Ridder? What about Cordarrelle Patterson? What do the Falcons really mean when they talk about "position-less" football? These topics and more discussed in this week's episode.00:00 - Intro 00:14 - Topics 01:10 - What we learned about the offense 03:51 - Positionless Football 07:25 - Confidence in Offensive Line production 11:05 - Questions at Quarterback 14:24 - Cordarrelle Patterson 18:58 - Wide Receiver units See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Falcons defensive lineman John Abraham joins Scott and Tori to break down what he learned about the Falcons defense during the offseason program, including Calais Campbell, Grady Jarrett and more. He also details what he saw from Bijan Robinson and what he expects from the No. 8 overall NFL Draft pick during his rookie season. 00:00 - Intro 01:09 - Campbell is huge addition 04:00 - What Grady Jarrett means to Falcons 07:28 - How Falcons can improve Defense 10:00 - Rebounding from injuries 13:10 - Thoughts on Bijan RobinsonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Falcons cornerback Jeff Okudah joins Tori McElhaney and Scott Bair to discuss life as a five-star recruit playing Texas high school football, embracing his heritage and overcoming adversity both on and off the field. 00:00 - Intro 00:27 - ‘Walking by Faith’ after injury 02:13 - Gameday Fits 5:13 - Taking nothing for granted 07:02 - Importance of High School Football 13:13 - Playing for Ohio State 14:41 - The Movie Critic 15:54 - A Mother’s love & Family Support 19:50 - Embracing heritage & football in Nigeria 23:07 - Friendship with A.J. Terrell 24:55 - Building something special at Falcons 25:45 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Falcons cornerback Mike Hughes joins Scott and Tori to discuss his career arc, entering the NFL as a first-round pick, dealing with injury and being poised and ready to capitalize on his Falcons opportunity. We also go back to some if his greatest plays, including one where he saved Central Florida's unbeaten season. 00:00 - Intro 00:26 - Joining Atlanta Falcons Secondary 01:07 - Richie Grant friendship 02:17 - Going undefeated at UCF 06:42 - Journey to 1st round draft selection 11:59 - Battling through adversity 14:05 - Importance of Mom 15:06 - Excitement for Atlanta Falcons 16:33 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having grown up just 25 minutes from the Falcons facility in Flowery Branch, Ga., quarterback Taylor Heinicke details his excitement to return home to play for his hometown team. Heinicke also shares stories from his Collins Hill High School days as well as his unconventional journey as a backup quarterback through the league. 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - From studying to playoffs 04:47 - Making the most of every opportunity 07:14 - Friendship with T.J. Yates 09:01 - Collins Hill High School 10:33 - Growing up a Green Bay Packers fan 12:06 - Tradition of collecting Nike Jordan shoes 14:30 - Finding a way to get it done & still having fun 17:40 - Rapid Fire QuestionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney identify themes, important sections of the 2023 schedule and how the Falcons can navigate it while competing to win a wide-open NFC South. 00:00 - Intro00:35 - Strength of Schedule01:17 - Overview & Initial Reactions04:00 - Weeks 1-4 | London Calling09:56 - Weeks 5-10 | The Trap12:20 - Weeks 12-18 | Crunch Time14:08 - What it could all meanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave and DJ dive into the Atlanta Falcons 2023 NFL Draft, discuss the new draftees in depth, as well as examine the current state of the NFC South. 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Topics 01:43 - Atlanta Falcons Draft in 3 words 03:09- Bijan Robinson at #8 11:21 - Matthew Bergeron at #38 15:40 - Zach Harrison at #75 20:51 - Clark Phillips III at #113 24:50 - DeMarcco Hellams at #224 26:14 - Jovaughn Gwyn at #225 28:29 - Grading the Falcons 2023 NFL Draft 31:51 - State of the NFC South 36:37 - 2023 Schedule ReleaseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott and Tori react to the Atlanta Falcons selection of Bijan Robinson with No. 8 overall 2023 NFL Draft pick.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to detail how he turned one of two scholarship offers into a role as Falcons starting quarterback. He detailed the hilarious way he got a scholarship offer to Cincinnati, who taught him to throw a perfect spiral -- the answer will surprise you -- his bond with Drake London and how having a young daughter has changed his life for the better. 00:00 - Intro 00:24 - Important phone call in an unlikely place 05:35 - University of Cincinnati 09:38 - Importance of Coach Gino Guidugli 12:12 - Importance of family 13:35 - High school sweethearts 15:55 - Breaking windows and playing football 17:37 - Importance of mom 19:24 - Learning football from grandmother 20:38 - What made Desmond who he is 25:45 - ‘Uncle’ Drake London 27:24 - Importance of growing with teammates 29:35 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL Network chief national reporter Steve Wyche joins the program to discuss what the Falcons might do in this year’s NFL draft. He reviews what Arthur Smith and Terry Fontenot accomplished in free agency and what those moves tell us about how they might use the No. 8 overall pick.00:00 - Intro 00:30 - What Free Agency means for Draft 09:00 - No desperation at pick 8 12:15 - What happens at top of draft? 16:45 - How far would you move back? 18:45 - Thoughts on Quarterback 22:05 - Bijan Robinson, what if? 25:25 - An interesting Draft aheadSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

nside linebacker Kaden Elliss joins the Falcons in Focus podcast to recall memories of growing up as the oldest of 11 siblings, as well as his father Luther Elliss' influence on him. Kaden was born mere months after Luther was drafted in 1995. Life as an NFL player is one Kaden knew well, even before he became a professional in his own right. 00:00 - Intro 00:35 - Playing vs brother in NFL game 02:29 - Growing up with 11 siblings 06:35 - Growing up in an NFL household 10:40 - From Quarterback to Linebacker 14:50 - The journey & constant strive for growth 18:28 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Falcons defensive tackle joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss a unique journey from his native Nigeria to Canada, where he was first introduced to the game of football and forged a path to the NFL. 00:00 - Intro 00:45 - Cam Jordan & Ryan Nielsen 04:35 - Lagos, Nigeria to Atlanta, Georgia 07:08 - Unusual path to playing football 15:58 - Drafted to NFL while playing golf 17:42 - Welcome to NFL moment & family’s reaction 19:47 - Rapid Fire Questions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Safety Jessie Bates III joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney in Ticketmaster Studios to take a look back on his journey to Atlanta. Bates talks his mother's influence on his creation of the JB3 Single Mother's Initiative, the goal of signing his second contract and connecting with fellow Falcons defensive backs A.J. Terrell and Casey Hayward. Bates also makes a pledge to single mothers and organizations in Atlanta. 00:00 - Intro00:31 - Attending first NFL game03:00 - Mother’s love, sacrifice & support09:56 - JB3 Single Mother's Initiative12:15 - How it feels to live your dream15:06 -Passion for finance & investing17:05 - Familiar Faces & ‘DB Getaway’19:45 -Rod Woodson connection21:41 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Falcons tight end Jonnu Smith joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss his difficult upbringing in Philadelphia and his mother's role in helping him realize his dream. He moved from Philly to Florida, where his football career took off put him on a path to the NFL, allowing him to give back to those who helped him along the way. 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Who was TE Coach Arthur Smith? 06:03 - Jonnu Smith’s football start 09:42 - Growing up as the youngest 11:03 - “My mother was my rock” 15:14 - Smith’s amazing family 18:52 - From Philly to Ocala 23:10 - Our norm was not normal 28:54 - Competitive weightlifting & basketball 32:20 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott and Tori attend the 2023 NFL Combine and ask other national media members their thoughts on the Atlanta Falcons. Listen in as Ben Solak, Chris Simms, Albert Breer, Robert Mays, and Charles Davis share their views on Free Agency, the NFL Draft and beyond. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Ashton Edmunds analyzed the Super Bowl combatants in relation to the Falcons and what they must do next. The Chiefs and Eagles built their championship rosters in different ways, and there’s plenty to for Atlanta to take from how those teams were successful. We identify three pillars of success, including dominance on both offensive and defensive lines and under center. We break down ways the Falcons can make strides in those areas, through upgrades or developing players already on the roster. We also discuss the possibility that the Falcons can surge into playoff contention in the NFC South if they make the right moves. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, Super Bowl impressions and what Falcons can learn from Chiefs, Eagles (00:03:10): Chiefs proved dominant O-Line is key, an area where Falcons are strong (00:05:28): The advantage of QB development/patience in relation to Jalen Hurts and Desmond Ridder (00:10:15): Why building a bully along defensive front is vital (00:13:11): Arthur Blank on Desmond Ridder (00:16:12): How KC built a contender with QB on rookie deal, maintained it post-extension (00:18:30): How will Falcons attack offseason?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brand new Falcons defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss how he got into coaching after a productive football career at USC, detailing a journey that has led him to Atlanta and his first opportunity to call plays at the professional level. Nielsen takes fans back to the beginning, when he was a three-sport star in Southern California, with an untold story about how he committed to USC, and how he eventually decided football was his passion. Nielsen gives credit to his mentors who help him along the way, as he worked his way up the coaching ranks and eventually ended up in Atlanta. 00:00 - Intro 00:15 - Benefits of being multi-sport athlete 01:43 - Being recruited by USC 04:40 - Football without passion is not worth playing 05:47 - Moment football became career goal 07:23 - Lessons from coaching start 08:45 - The value of relationships 10:12 - Cameron Jordan & Ed Orgeron friendships 13:18 - Ryan Nielsen’s coaching philosophy 15:13 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave and D.J. discuss the Atlanta Falcons recent hires - Ryan Nielsen & Jerry Grey, as well as discuss how they predict fans could see the Falcons defense evolve. 00:00 - Intro 00:30 - Topics 00:45 - Ryan Nielsen ins three words or less 03:00 - Nielsen’s leadership and defensive background 10:00 - What’s instore for Falcons’ Defense 11:30 - What Jerry Grey hire means for Falcons 19:48 - What needs to be addressed in the offseasonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney kick off the offseason version of Falcons Final Whistle – Ashton Edmunds was in Las Vegas on assignment – with a discussion of the Ryan Nielsen and Jerry Gray hires and how they can impact this Falcons defense following Dean Pees retirement. They discuss what Nielsen brings to the table – his history with a 4-3 base isn’t a big deal – and how he can help the Falcons and what’s left to find out about what the new defensive coordinator has planned. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, initial reactions to Ryan Nielsen, Jerry Gray hires (00:03:50): What we’ve found out about Ryan Nielsen (00:07:15): Discussing Nielsen’s history in a 4-3 base formation (00:11:17): Does this hire change the Falcons’ needs? (00:15:24): Why Ryan Nielsen seems like an Arthur Smith guy; Jerry Gray’s fit (21:40): Could we expect Falcons to bring in players their staff has a history with?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave and D.J. discuss ending the season on a win and what is next for the Atlanta Falcons. The guys also reflect on Dean Pees’ retirement and legacy, as well as dive into Arthur Smith and Terry Fontenot’s end of season press conference. 00:00 - Intro 00:15 - Topics 00:48- How about that UGA Dawgs win 04:10 - Falcons finish season with win and what that means for their future 13:10 - Dean Pees’ retirement & legacy 19:09 - End of season press conference & what’s next 31:35 - Super Bowl Predictions and Combine performancesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg Beadles joins Scott and Tori for the Falcons in Focus season finale to break down his journey from intern to team president, with great stories from 28 years spent rising through the organization. Beadles also details life as the son of a coach and athletic director, what it took to get Mercedes-Benz Stadium built and why his new role is a dream job for someone who grew up a huge Falcons fan. 00:00 - Intro 00:15 - Greg Beadles named Atlanta Falcons President 02:08 - Starting Falcons journey as intern 08:06 - Starting The Atlanta Falcons website and team store 09:40 - Fun & odd jobs during games 14:36 - Father, basketball & preparing for sports career 16:32 - Combining Sports & Business 17:52 - Instrumental creating Falcons of today 22:46 - Building Mercedes-Benz Stadium 28:11 - Focusing on the Falcons & continuing journey 33:28 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.