Falcons’ Preseason Turns Explosive as Raheem Morris Opens QB Race

For the first time in years, the Falcons are entering training camp without a predetermined starter. Morris has scrapped the idea of locking in a QB early. Instead, he’s putting every passer on the roster — veterans, young players, and backups — into what he calls “a real, no-holds-barred competition.”

“This isn’t about names or résumés,” Morris explained. “It’s about performance. Every snap, every throw in August is going to count. You earn the job — you don’t get it handed to you.”

The plan calls for rotating quarterbacks evenly through preseason games, giving each a chance to work with the first-team offense. That means fans could see multiple starters in the opening weeks of August as Morris and his staff evaluate leadership, poise, and production under pressure.

Lessons From the Past

Morris’ statement carries weight because the Falcons have been searching for quarterback stability ever since Matt Ryan’s departure. In previous seasons, the team often committed to a starter before preseason was over, leaving little room for challengers to prove themselves.

“When you don’t have true competition,” Morris said, “you risk complacency. That’s not an option for us anymore.”

His words suggest that past struggles — including missed playoff opportunities and inconsistent offensive play — might have been avoided if this approach had been in place earlier.

Why 2025 Is Different

This year’s Falcons roster is loaded with potential. Offensive weapons like Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson are primed for breakout performances. On defense, offseason upgrades have bolstered the pass rush and tightened the secondary.

All that’s missing is the right quarterback to pull it together — and Morris is determined to find him before Week 1.

A Statement to the Locker Room — and the Fans

By opening the competition, Morris is sending a clear message: no one is safe, and nothing is guaranteed. The approach has already energized the locker room, with players describing a sharper edge in practice and a rene

“We’re going to let the play on the field decide,” Morris told reporters. “When the dust settles, we’ll know exactly who’s ready to lead Atlanta.”

This preseason isn’t just about roster decisions — it’s about changing the Falcons’ culture. And if Morris’ instincts are right, it’s a change that could have rewritten their recent history had it happened sooner.