Two bits of news today as the team heads into OTAs tomorrow. Atlanta has signed WR J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, who had a tryout with the team earlier. He was originally a second round pick by the Eagles in 2019 but hasn't really caught on, having played mainly as a special teamer when he actually did get into games. He spent part of last season on the Seahawks practice squad - and was released. Falcons web site writer Tori McElhaney observed his tryout. She noted that he runs with power and he's thick - listed at 6'2", 237. She said she'd like to see his blocking skills in action, noting that it could be a key point for Atlanta's offense. True enough, and his blocking (and tackling) for special teams will also be key for his chances of sticking around. But the shocker is that in the corresponding move to clear roster space, the Falcons have listed WR prospect Jared Bernhardt as "reserve - retired". Bernhardt was an undrafted rookie last year. He was the nation's top college lacrosse player, and he returned to football after graduation to play quarterback at Ferris State - leading them to a national championship. He got some national attention in preseason when he caught a game-winning fourth down pass from Desmond Ridder, and he made the roster as the team didn't want to risk putting him through waivers to get him to the practice squad. But then he suffered an injury that put him on IR for the regular season. Now he's apparently hanging it up rather than trying again. Perhaps pro lacrosse is next in his future.
