While the Atlanta Falcons are expected to lessen the burden of carries on running back Michael Turner by promoting second-year tailback Jacquizz Rodgers in the backfield, the second-year man from Oregon State is also atop the depth chart at kick returner as well, according to the team's official site.
One of his competitors is brother James, who played with Jacquizz at Oregon State, along with corner Dominque Franks. The departure of former return specialist Eric Weems to Chicago has opened up a chance for the Falcons to improve their return yardage. Against Cincinnati in their second preseason game, Atlanta averaged 23.8 yards a return.
As for competing against his brother in the pro ranks, Rodgers downplayed the brotherly competition:
"We’ve been competing against each other all our life," Jacquizz said. "It’s something to help push one another. If I get a ball and get out to the 35, he’s going to try to top it. It’s a friendly competition."
For more on the Falcons, please be sure to check out our blog The Falcoholic and SB Nation Atlanta for all the latest news and updates.