Terry Fontenot Talks Player Maturity, Defensive Versatility, and the Energy Fans Bring to Falcons Training Camp

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Falcons General Manager Terry Fontenot didn’t hold back when addressing the media during training camp. From player commitment to the energy in the building, Fontenot made one thing clear: this team came back ready.

He started by praising how the players returned after the offseason break—locked in, in shape, and ready to go. The way they handled weigh-ins and conditioning told him everything he needed to know.

“It was impressive how our guys showed up,” Fontenot said. “You put in all that work during the offseason, then there’s that small window when they’re away. You’ve got to trust they’ll keep grinding—and they did. When they came back, the way they looked and how they handled business said a lot about who we are right now.”

And while the players brought the focus, the fans brought the juice.

“We didn’t have them out here last year, and you feel that,” he said. “Their presence, the energy, the connection—it lifts the whole environment. The players feel it. We feel it. It matters.”

On the field, Fontenot spotlighted the defense and the growing versatility within the group. He credited defensive coordinator Jimmy “Brick” Brickowski for installing a system that’s built on flexibility and creating matchup problems.

“We don’t just have a set 11 guys anymore,” he said. “It’s not just ‘here’s your starters and here’s your nickel guy.’ We’ve got athletes who can move around, do multiple things, and create problems for opposing offenses. That’s where we’re headed.”

Fontenot sees the inside linebacker group as a clear strength so far in camp. Kaden Elliss continues to develop at the stack position, showing the ability to shift around when needed. Divine Deablo brings length, toughness, and speed—disruptive whether he’s dropping back or bringing pressure. Jalon Walker, known for rushing the passer, is now proving he can be effective inside. And JD Bertrand is quietly building a role, consistently showing he belongs.

Fontenot also made a point to highlight Deablo again, especially to those who might overlook him.

“You might just see number zero out there and not think much—but don’t be fooled,” he said. “He’s long, athletic, covers ground, and really messes with passing lanes. Not flashy, but super effective. One of those guys whose impact speaks for itself—even if you’re not looking for it.”

As camp moves forward, Fontenot knows there’s still plenty of work to be done—but the tone has been set.

“We like where we are right now,” he said. “But this is just the beginning. We’re building something—one day at a time.”