As Sunday's season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs slowly but sure approaches, the Falcons--despite Mike Smith's unwillingness to give a "competitive advantage" to the other team--have released their week one depth chart.
The big surprise is that incumbent right guard Garrett Reynolds, who was benched halfway through the 2011 season after struggling in the starting role, has remained the starter over second-round draft pick Peter Konz.
While Konz failed to "wow" the coaching staff this preseason, Reynolds had his share of mistakes as well, particularly in pass protection. But at the same time, it is a safe move. As far as the immediate upcoming game is concerned, Konz doesn't represent a significant upgrade over Reynolds.
Still, it should only be a matter of time before the team opts to give the younger, less-seasoned Konz a chance to start.
As for cornerback, Asante Samuel is still listed behind Dunta Robinson, but with Mike Nolan expected to run the nickel package often this season (three CBs and two LBs), expect Samuel to see plenty of time on the field.
As far as the rest of the depth chart is concerned, the team has recent signee Luke McCown as the No. 2 QB, Jacquizz Rodgers as the kick returner, and Harry Douglas as the punt return man.
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