The Atlanta Falcons enter their 2012 campaign unquestionably deep at most positions, especially on offense, but their line is still a work in progress, and will likely become the most scrutinized unit of the preseason.
Unlike the moves to replace both coordinators, the Falcons couldn't politely explain that offensive line coach Paul Boudreau had another big-time offer. Mike Smith and company pulled the trigger on longtime Fresno State head coach Pat Hill, and now Mike Smith has told the media that essentially everyone on the roster will get a shot at extensive playing time (courtesy of the AJC):
"On the offensive line there will be more substitutions," Smith said. "In the last couple of years, normally we stayed with the same group for the period that they were in there. We may be moving some guys around."
A few folks to watch on Thursday night against the Ravens - Atlanta's top pick Peter Konz, who could start his rookie season at guard and possibly take over for Todd McClure at center, and the ever-evolving saga of Sam Baker, who lost his left tackle job to injury and poor play last season.
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