Falcons' Arthur Smith to Rookies: 'Use That Veteran Wisdom!'
The Atlanta Falcons are turning into a veteran-led team.
Atlanta was one of the youngest teams going into the 2022 season, ranking 27th in the league with a 26.3 average age. But after the additions of players like David Onyemata, Calais Campbell and Jessie Bates III, that number will increase in 2023.
The veterans on the roster not only improve the team on the field, but their knowledge can be beneficial for the talented youngsters off of it.
"I told some of those young guys that it’s not just on the field, off the field, how they handle stuff, we’ve got great veterans in there," coach Arthur Smith said. "Like go ask them what they’re routines are, their habits, how they take care of themselves, sleep, all that stuff. Use that wisdom that’s in the locker room. Hopefully, they take advantage of it [and] don’t waste it.”
The Falcons hope to take the next step towards contention and qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2017. Making the playoffs would snap one of the longest current postseason droughts in the NFL. The veterans on the roster are going to play a massive part in whether that happens or not.
Beyond this season, these veterans can help instill the qualities necessary in order to have long, successful NFL careers ... and that's a pillar of the foundation the Falcons are trying to build to have a long-term contender.
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