As the Atlanta Falcons prepare for their final preseason matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, one question keeps popping up: Will the starters finally see the field?
The short answer: No.
Atlanta Falcons Starters Not Slated to Play Preseason Versus Dallas Cowboys
Head coach Raheem Morris has stayed consistent with his approach this summer, sitting his top players to avoid injuries and using these games to evaluate everyone else fighting for a roster spot. That won’t change against Dallas.
The Falcons’ latest depth chart ahead of the game showed a few small tweaks. Among them is quarterback Ben DiNucci, drafted by the Cowboys in 2020. He’ll now get the chance to face his former team, and with Michael Penix Jr. and Kirk Cousins ruled out, DiNucci and Easton Stick will be the only active quarterbacks. For DiNucci, this game is a real shot to prove he belongs on an NFL roster.
Morris has clarified his preseason philosophy: protecting the starters while focusing on player development. That means plenty of chances for rookies, backups, and bubble players to show what they can do under game conditions. It also mirrors a growing trend around the league, where more and more coaches decide it’s not worth risking star players in August.
Atlanta’s preseason has been anything but quiet. Week 1 was cut short by a scary injury to Detroit rookie Morice Norris, while Week 2 saw a loss to the Titans and a few injury concerns, most notably along the offensive line. With right tackle Kaleb McGary banged up, Morris has more reason to stick to his cautious plan.
Look Ahead into the 2025 Season for the Atlanta Falcons
Beyond the preseason, the Falcons have a lot of desire going into 2025. The development of Penix Jr., who took over as the starting quarterback late last season, will be a major plot point. Thankfully, he is surrounded by excellent support.
Bijan Robinson is coming off a monster season where he rushed for more than 1,400 yards, and wideout Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts give Atlanta real firepower in the passing game. The offensive line, led by Jake Matthews and Chris Lindstrom, remains a strength if McGary can return healthy.
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For now, though, the focus stays on finishing the preseason strong by getting extended looks at young players and those on the roster bubble. Falcons fans hoping to see Penix, Robinson, or London will have to wait until Week 1.
Until then, Morris is sticking to his plan: keep the stars healthy and use August to build the best 53-man roster possible.