Former Howard standout Rico Council practiced with the Atlanta Falcons on Monday at Coahulla Creek High School.For Rico Council to take full advantage of his NFL opportunity, he knows he must be a special rookie. Literally.
The former Howard High and Tennessee State star linebacker has been told repeatedly by coaches and veteran teammates that his best shot of earning a spot on the Atlanta Falcons roster is by becoming a playmaker on special teams.
“I’ll do whatever I have to to make this team,” said Council, who was the Ohio Valley Conference co-defensive player of the year last season. “I know that means playing special teams first, because that’s just how the young guys earn a spot. My goal is to get on one of the special teams, because once you make that, you can work your way onto the field on defense. I’ve got to find a role and get some reps.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to play in the NFL. I grew up a Falcons fan, so this is a great opportunity for me.”
The 6-foot-1, 255-pound Council got his first glimpse of work against NFL competition Monday during the team’s combined workout with the Titans at Coahulla Creek. The Falcons open the preseason against Baltimore tonight at 7:30 at the Georgia Dome.