Falcons have a new quarterback problem after Jack Strand’s breakout performance originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Jack Strand isn’t making the Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback decision any easier.
The undrafted rookie delivered his strongest performance of the preseason Saturday, pushing himself back into the conversation for Atlanta’s No. 3 quarterback job during a convincing 34-6 victory over the Indianapolis Colts.
Strand, a Division II product from Minnesota State Moorhead, entered late in the second quarter and immediately found a rhythm. He completed eight of his first nine passes and finished 12-of-17 for 212 yards and a touchdown.
He also showed that his athleticism could be another factor in the competition, rushing for 22 yards and scoring on a 16-yard run.
The performance came at an important time for Strand. After appearing to lose ground in the quarterback competition over the previous week, the rookie responded with the type of preseason showing that could force Atlanta’s coaching staff to take a longer look before final roster decisions are made.
Veteran Cooper Rush also strengthened his case.
Falcons’ forgotten quarterbackRush started against Indianapolis and was nearly perfect, completing 10 of 11 passes for 86 yards. Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski declined to single out Strand afterward, instead praising the decision-making of both quarterbacks.
“I thought both those guys made good decisions,” Stefanski said. “There were some unique looks that we got during the game that we haven’t seen a ton of in the last week, and I thought they both saw it clearly. The ball went where the ball was supposed to go the majority of the time.”
For Strand, Saturday represented more than another preseason appearance. It was an opportunity to prove he belongs in the NFL conversation.
Rush’s experience could give him an advantage when Atlanta evaluates its quarterback room, but Strand’s upside and ability to create plays with both his arm and legs could make him difficult to cut.
The Falcons entered Saturday searching for clarity.
Instead, Strand may have made their quarterback decision even more complicated.
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