On Tuesday, rookie WR Julio Jones finally joined his fellow Falcons on the practice field at Buford High School. Having taken him at No. 6 overall in this year's draft, the Falcons fully expect Jones to contribute and make some big plays on offense in the 2011 NFL season. It has now been reported that he has started participating in the team 7-on-7 drills, gaining valuable reps with QB Matt Ryan.
Jones also has begun to look over the offensive playbook with his quarterback, along with fellow Alabama alum John Parker Wilson. Jones claims to already recognize some plays in the Falcons' playbook, a result of Mike Mularkey's time spent coaching with Alabama head coach Nick Saban in Miami.
"It's just the terminology that's different," said Jones.
Offseason preparation is going to be critical to the Falcons' success this year, and that preparation starts with Jones familiarizing himself with the playbook, his teammates, and timing with QB Matt Ryan. This is clearly a step in the right direction.
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