Falcons Training Camp: Mykal Walker Discusses Ryan Nielsen's New Scheme

Atlanta Falcons linebacker Mykal Walker recently opened up about his role in the new defense during training camp.

The Atlanta Falcons entered training camp with a new defense and a young linebacker corp ready to learn the ins and outs of Ryan Nielsen's new scheme. 

Linebacker Kaden Ellis signed with Atlanta as a free agent this offseason but is expected to catch on quickly after spending time with Nielsen from 2019-22 with the New Orleans Saints. Second-year linebacker Troy Andersen is also expected to make an early impact after starting in the final four games of last season.

Fans should not forget about former fourth-round pick Mykal Walker though.

In three seasons with Atlanta, Walker has seen three different defensive coordinators and has struggled to find his niche with the Falcons. However, Walker has a good feeling about Nielsen's new defense and his role in it entering a contract year. 

Walker has spent time at both outside and inside linebacker and is reportedly "getting a chance" to play outside again, according to ESPN's Michael Rothstein.

"[Playing outside] lets you run around and make plays," Walker recently told Rothstein. "The original scheme I was drafted for when I came to Atlanta was a 4-3, so I was always covered up and I was able to run sideline-to-sideline and make plays with athleticism and I think we're bringing that back this year. A little bit more matching."

Walker continued to praise the new scheme while also giving credit to former Atlanta defensive coordinator Dean Pees.

"I don't take nothing away from Dean [Pees]," Walker said. "It was a great scheme, everything like that. I just think this scheme fits us a little bit more."

Walker is a fan of the "attacking, aggressive nature" Nielsen is looking to instill in Atlanta's defense and will be a player to keep an eye on this season as he takes on a versatile role. Last season Walker totaled 107 tackles, four for a loss, one sack, and two interceptions in 12 starts. 

---

You can follow Ben King on Twitter at @BKing_2023.

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Falcons? Click Here.

Follow Falcon Report on Twitter.

Want even more Atlanta Falcons news? Check out the SI.com team page here.