Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports

Falcons Rookie Review: Zach Harrison Playing Bigger Role

Originally posted on FanNation Falcon Report
By Daniel Flick | Last updated 11/17/23

After spending their first two draft picks on offense, the Atlanta Falcons used their third-round choice on defensive end Zach Harrison.

Viewed as a project out of Ohio State, Harrison had an impressive training camp and has fought his way into the mix on Atlanta's defensive line, especially as the unit's been ravaged by injuries.

The 22-year-old Harrison has played in all 10 games this season for the Falcons, flashing his talent while also offering reminders of why he's viewed as more of a long-term piece.

Here's a look at the start of Harrison's rookie campaign ...

KEY NUMBERS: 20 total tackles, five quarterback hurries, no quarterback hits, tackles for loss or sacks across 196 defensive snaps, or 30 percent of Atlanta's total.

"REMEMBER WHEN": Harrison had a nearly unblocked pathway to Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield in Week 5 and couldn't come up with the sack? That play resulted in a 22-yard gain to running back Rachaad White, leaving Atlanta's defense frustrated. It was a prime example of the disruption Harrison can cause, but how far he still has to go.

BEST OF THE BEST: During a Week 8 contest against the Tennessee Titans, Harrison played a career-high 27 defensive snaps, good for 40 percent of the Falcons' total number. He capitalized on this increase in snaps, earning a Pro Football Focus grade of 74.5, tops on the team.

BIGGEST OBSTACLE: Finding steady playing time has been hard to come by for Harrison, who played 17 or fewer snaps four times in a five-game stretch, spanning from Week 2 through Week 6. He's played at least 22 snaps in each game since and continues to occasionally flash, inspiring confidence he's turning the corner.

WHAT'S TO COME: Harrison's made his way into the rotation more often of late, and he feels close to taking his game to the next level. Can he make his first play behind the line of scrimmage? That's the big question - and the opportunity exists for him to finish his rookie season quite strong.

ONE LAST LINE: "Zach's been great," defensive tackle Onyemata said during training camp. "Just actually coming in as a rookie and taking advantage of his opportunities. I feel like he goes in every day with the intent to learn.

"There's certain things Ryan talks about in the d-line room, and we watch the techniques and fundamentals, and he comes out here the next day working on that. It's great to see that from young a guy, and see him improve day-in, day-out."

This article first appeared on FanNation Falcon Report and was syndicated with permission.

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