Malone appeared to be on the roster-cut bubble but found his niche in a key area to claim a spot.
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Raheem Morris often talks about role clarity. The Falcons' head coach aims for each player to thoroughly understand exactly what's expected of them and for that to be precisely executed.
Outside linebacker DeAngelo Malone is a prime example of that.
Malone isn't the flashiest name on the Falcons’ 53-man roster, but he has continually excelled as a strong presence on special teams.
"You guys got a chance to see what DeAngelo means to this football team on every Friday and Saturday that he went out there and absolutely dominated the kicking phase in game," Morris said. "... He found a role in a niche and he made it that he was undeniable, that you had to find a way to keep him on the football team so he can continue to do that at a very high level."
Malone's contribution to special teams has earned the 2022 third-rounder a place on the roster each year. Last season, Malone played 78% of snaps on special teams — more than any other Falcons player — and none on defense.
"Every time I step out on the field, I just try to leave my mark. I just try to make a big play," Malone said. "Every time I step out there, I just (think), 'Man, what can I do to try to make this team?'"
Malone isn't one to set season goals. His main objective is to make the 53-man roster and then contribute in any way he can. Even though he has made the initial roster each year, there was no guarantee this time around. It was a nerve-wracking process on cut day, Malone said. He didn't do anything to distract himself. He simply waited around for the call, talked to his mother and prayed.
Faith and the work he put in during the preseason has gotten him this far. Preseason can often be an overlooked part of the NFL season. Most of the Falcons that will start didn't see a single snap, but the value is estimated elsewhere, especially for players like Malone.
"Personally, I love (preseason games)," Malone said. "I feel like it's a chance to showcase your talents and just be out there playing alongside your brothers."
In the exhibition games, Malone was measured on his special teams play by the Falcons coaching and front office staff. Even when he started the final preseason game versus the Jacksonville Jaguars, he still played 80% of special teams snaps. This preseason, Malone recorded a league-best six tackles on punts and kickoffs, four of which came in a single game against the Miami Dolphins.
Malone's ascent on special teams comes as the NFL ventures into a new era of kickoff returns. The Falcons will expect that same effort and consistency from the third-year defender when they kick off against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept. 8.
When that moment comes, Malone is ready to deliver wherever he's needed.
"If that's (what) they want me to embrace, I can do that," Malone said. "You got to start somewhere and just starting with special teams and leaving my mark, it's a blessing."
