Atlanta Falcons Reportedly A Contender For Hard Knocks

In a somewhat surprising development, ESPN New York is reporting that the Atlanta Falcons have emerged as strong contenders to be featured on this year's edition of Hard Knocks, a behind-the-scenes HBO documentary about NFL training camp.

The show has traditionally featured more high-profile franchises like the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Jets, but there have been seasons centered around the Cincinnati Bengals and Kansas City Chiefs, so selecting the Falcons wouldn't be totally unprecedented.

Atlanta has made the playoffs in three of four seasons under coach Mike Smith, but neither QB Matt Ryan nor RB Michael Turner have high Q ratings and the team itself doesn't have much of a national reputation.

That could change after HBO profiles them for over a month; however, there have been mixed reviews from previous teams about the value of appearing on the show.

For all the latest off-season news and notes on the Falcons, check out The Falcoholic.