The Atlanta Falcons have revealed their team captains for the 2026 NFL season, a decision announced on Thursday afternoon. This year, the Falcons will rely on five key players to guide the team, and notably, none of the selected captains are quarterbacks.
Among the captains, running back Bijan Robinson is making his debut as a team leader. Joining him are returning captains safety Jessie Bates III and right guard Chris Lindstrom. The complete list of the Falcons' captains for the 2026 season includes:
- RB Bijan Robinson
- RG Chris Lindstrom
- S Jessie Bates III
- LB Divine Deablo
- K Nick Folk
Last season, the Falcons had six captains under former head coach Raheem Morris. The absence of a quarterback in this year's captaincy selection is particularly noteworthy. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. served as a captain last season, but his uncertain status heading into Week 1 has likely influenced the decision to exclude him from this year's leadership group. Additionally, Tua Tagovailoa, who has been in the mix for the starting quarterback position, was also not named as a captain.
The Falcons are set to begin their 2026 regular season with an away game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, September 13. As the season opener approaches, the Falcons may face challenges, especially with a quarterback situation that remains unsettled. Regardless of who takes the field as the starting quarterback, the team is expected to be viewed as underdogs in this matchup.
This announcement of the team captains is a significant step for the Falcons as they prepare for the season ahead. Leadership on and off the field can play a crucial role in a team's performance, and the selected captains will need to step up to guide their teammates through the challenges of the upcoming NFL season.
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