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The Atlanta Falcons are seeded near the top of the NFC South and have a real chance to win it, which is a change from recent years. One night you can watch their 2025 schedule is on one Thursday night.
Do the Falcons Play On Thursday Night Football This Year?
Yes, the Atlanta Falcons have one Thursday Night Football game scheduled for the 2025 NFL season. They will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the road at Raymond James Stadium on December 11, 2025, at 8:15 p.m. ET.
The game will be broadcast on Amazon Prime Video and can also be streamed on Twitch or with an NFL+ subscription (mobile only). In the Atlanta and Tampa Bay markets, it will be available over the air for free on local channels
Announcers: Wes Durham, Dave Archer
Pre-Game Reporting: Taylor Rooks
If you want to watch the game, you can sign up for Amazon Prime, which has a 30-day free trial. Yes, that means new signups can watch immediately for free.
How To Watch Thursday Night Football On Prime Video For Free
- Open the Prime Video app on your TV, tablet or phone.
- Sign in or sign up for Prime at Amazon.com/Prime
- In the Prime Video app, select Thursday Night Football
Want to see the full Thursday Night Football slate? Download the Thursday Night NFL Schedule.
Where Can I Watch Thursday Night Football?
You can watch Thursday Night Football on Prime Video. People who are already Amazon Prime members already have access to the games. If you’re not a member, you can sign up. Again, it’s no cost for the first 30 days.
If you keep Amazon Prime past 30 days, it will cost you $8.99 a month.
Can The Games Be Live Streamed On Any Device?
You can livestream Thursday Night Football games on Amazon.com or on an Amazon device such as Fire TV and Fire Tablet as well as the following:
If you have Prime Video, you can also access Thursday Night Football matchups via any tablets and smartphones running iOs or Android.
Final Word
Football is a religion in the South. Want to leave the house? Catch all the games at your favorite local bar.
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The Atlanta Falcons opened their 2025 schedule with a gut-wrenching 23-20 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a game that came down to a missed 44-yard field goal by Younghoe Koo in the final seconds.
Despite a valiant fourth-quarter comeback led by second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr., the Falcons couldn’t overcome a resilient Buccaneers squad, leaving Atlanta fans with a familiar sting of what might have been.
The Falcons Week 1: What We Learned
The game, a heated NFC South showdown, showcased the Falcons’ potential but exposed critical lapses that proved costly against a Tampa Bay team hungry to extend their divisional dominance.
Atlanta’s new-look offense, spearheaded by Penix and running back Bijan Robinson, showed flashes of brilliance, but it wasn’t enough to counter Tampa Bay’s late-game heroics.
1. A Fast Start Fades
The Falcons struck first, capitalizing on an early drive that highlighted Robinson’s versatility. Just 1:46 into the game, Penix connected with Robinson on a 50-yard touchdown pass, giving Atlanta a 7-0 lead.
Robinson, who set a career-high 104 receiving yards, was a force, hauling in six catches for 100 yards, including the early score.
“Bijan was electric today,” head coach Raheem Morris said postgame. “He gave us everything we asked for and more.”
Tampa Bay responded in the second quarter, leaning on quarterback Baker Mayfield’s precision. A 48-yard field goal by Chase McLaughlin and a 30-yard touchdown pass to rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka tied the game at 10-10.
Atlanta answered with a 41-yard field goal from Koo, knotting the score at halftime.
The Falcons’ defense, bolstered by offseason additions like edge rusher Leonard Floyd and linebacker Divine Deablo, held firm early, limiting Tampa Bay to 159 total yards through three quarters.
2. A Tale of Two Halves
The second half saw Tampa Bay seize momentum. Mayfield, who finished with 167 passing yards and three touchdowns, orchestrated a crucial drive in the fourth quarter, finding Egbuka again for a touchdown with just a minute remaining.
The score put the Buccaneers ahead 23-20, a lead that proved insurmountable. Mayfield’s mobility also hurt Atlanta, as he scrambled for 39 yards, including key first downs.
“Baker was just a little sharper when it mattered most,” Morris admitted.
Penix, in his first season as the full-time starter, showed poise, completing 27 of 42 passes for 298 yards and one touchdown.
His connection with Robinson and tight end Kyle Pitts, who added 70 receiving yards, kept Atlanta in the game.
A late drive positioned the Falcons for a game-tying field goal, but Koo’s attempt sailed wide right, sealing Atlanta’s fate. “Younghoe’s one of the best in the business,” Penix said. “He’ll bounce back, and so will we.”
3. Missed Opportunities and Injuries
The Falcons’ offense racked up 358 total yards, outgaining Tampa Bay’s 260, but penalties (8 for 55 yards) and a 6-of-15 third-down conversion rate stalled drives.
The absence of wide receiver Darnell Mooney, listed as inactive due to injury, further limited Atlanta’s options.
“We missed Darnell’s speed out there,” Morris noted. “But we’ve got to execute regardless.”
Tampa Bay’s offensive line, despite a last-minute shuffle due to Tristan Wirfs’ absence, held up against Atlanta’s revamped pass rush, which managed just 0.5 sacks from Deablo.
The Buccaneers’ defense, led by safety Tykee Smith’s 11 tackles, stifled Atlanta’s run game, holding Robinson to 24 yards on 10 carries.
4. Falcons Must Move On
The loss drops Atlanta to 0-1, while Tampa Bay starts 1-0, setting an early tone in the NFC South race. Fans, still stinging from last season’s 8-9 finish, hoped Penix’s ascension and defensive upgrades would spark a turnaround.
While the offense showed promise, the late-game collapse underscored the need for sharper execution.
“We’re a young team, but we’re not using that as an excuse,” said safety Jessie Bates III, who led Atlanta with six tackles. “We had a chance to win and didn’t get it done. We’ll learn from this.”
Final Word
The Falcons now turn their attention to Week 2, facing a road test against the Houston Texans. For a team with playoff aspirations, the margin for error is slim, and Atlanta will need to harness its talent—and avoid late-game miscues—to keep pace in a competitive division.
“We’re disappointed, but it’s one game,” Morris said. “We’ve got 16 more to show who we are.”
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Light workouts are the key to getting your body into shape.
Low-intensity workouts are a catchphrase for exercising at a comfortable rate until your body can handle more.
What Are Some Low-Intensity Workouts I Can Do?
In this article, I’m going to show you some low-intensity workouts that you can do right now.
Why should you engage in low-intensity workouts? One reason is because it can help boost your cardiovascular health.
Here are some workouts you can do today:
Strength Training
Bodyweight exercises allow you to use your own bodyweight for resistance with exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, planks, and dips. Start with modifications if needed and gradually increase the difficulty.
Light circuits like 10 wall push-ups, 10 seated leg lifts, or 30-second planks (2-3 rounds) build strength without overexertion.
Resistance Bands
Using lightweight resistance bands adds a bit of challenge to bodyweight exercises without the impact of free weights.
Sometimes, you can incorporate light weights for added resistance, increasing strength and muscle tone.
Walking
A brisk 20-30 minute walk, ideally outdoors, boosts cardiovascular health. Aim for a pace where you can still talk comfortably. Vary terrain (parks, trails) for interest.
Regular light exercise, like brisk walking for 30 minutes most days of the week, can strengthen your heart, improve blood circulation, and lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
In Atlanta, you can find a scenic route in a local park, explore a new neighborhood or the ever-growing Beltline. Aim for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
Check out Atlanta’s best parks to walk or jog in.
Swimming
No matter the season, you can find a swimming pool near you to get some cardio in.
Swimming is a gentle on your joints and perfect for a cooling workout. Lap swimming or water aerobics are both great options.
Atlanta best swimming pools: Hours and Locations.
Cycling
A leisurely bike ride (10-12 mph) on flat terrain or a stationary bike at low resistance for 20-40 minutes works the legs and heart without strain.
Not only is cycling a great way to explore the city, but it does a body good. A leisurely bike ride around town or on a dedicated path is a low-impact way to enjoy the outdoors while getting some exercise.
Dancing
Getting your groove on has helath benefits as well. Yes, cutting a rug can trim your waistline.
Put on your favorite music and dance like nobody’s watching! Dancing is a fun and social way to get your heart rate up.
Where to go dancing in Atlanta.
Zumba Or Pilates
Many people work up a sweat in yoga studios all around Atlanta via Zumba classes and similar sessions.
Focuses on core strength, posture, and flexibility. Beginner mat Pilates (20-30 minutes) with moves like pelvic tilts or leg circles is ideal. Follow guided videos for proper form.
These mind-body practices combine gentle movements with deep breathing exercises, promoting flexibility, strength, and relaxation.
Check out these Zumba classes in Atlanta.
Mind-Body Activities:
- Tai Chi: This gentle movement practice focuses on balance, coordination, and mindfulness, improving overall well-being.
- Qigong: Similar to Tai Chi, Qigong involves slow, coordinated movements and deep breathing, promoting relaxation and stress reduction.
- Gardening: Gardening is a surprisingly active hobby that combines light exercise with the satisfaction of working outdoors and tending to your plants.
Final Word
Listen to your body and take rest days when needed. Start slow and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you get fitter.
: Start with 2-3 sessions per week, 15-30 minutes each. Listen to your body—stop if you feel pain. Pair with hydration and proper footwear. If you have health conditions, consult a doctor first.
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Henry “Hank” Aaron was a tender soul away from the baseball diamond. But on the field, he was an tenacious lion that put fright in other MLB pitchers.
Aaron passed away on January 22, 2021 in Atlanta. He was 86. While Aaron’s legacy is secure, we are left with his indelible record in Major League Baseball as well as many words of wisdom he shared along the way.
5 Inspiring Quotes From Hank Aaron
Let’s take a look at some of the wise words Aaron left with us as a testament to a life well lived and graciously played.
While we remember these endearing words, let’s also recall the principles that Aaron lived by, including honor, respect and integrity.
1. Live Up To Your Friends’ Expectations
Aaron once replied to a letter from a fan way back from his Milwaukee Braves days. Author Sandy Tolan relates:
“It is very heart warming to know that you are in my corner. I will always be grateful for the interest you have shown in me. As the so called count down’ begins, please be assured I will try to live up to the expectations of my friends.”
2. Has Major League Baseball Been Fair?
Here’s Aaron in a heated conversation with Monte Irvin about whether MLB has been fair to African-American players.
“I don’t care if anybody believes me or not, as long as a breath is in my body, someone has to show me they’re going after a Black manager, they can have Black people working in the front office, they can have a Black trainer, I’ll say then that baseball has been fair to Blacks.”
3. Growing Up With The KKK
“I remember many times as a little boy growing up that the Ku Klux Klan would come marching down the street, for no reason at all,” Aaron said in a 2010 MLB Network interview. “My mother would tell me, ‘Son, go hide under the bed.’
4. The Importance Of Patience In Your Pursuits
While Aaron was pursuing the homerun record, he shared with the Greensboro News & Record some choice thoughts on coaching legend Dean Smith.
When I was going after the record, the questions were always coming at me. ‘When are you going to break it?’ ‘Are you going to break it next week?’ ‘Will you break it tonight?’
“How would I know? You just have to try to be patient. I kept answering that I didn’t know, if not tonight, then tomorrow night, or next week, or next season.
5. On American Racism
Aaron was a beloved figure for most of America, but the constant racist threats, especially as he narrowed Babe Ruth’s homerun lead in the 1970s, left a bitter taste in his mouth. Here’s what he said about that, according to ESPN.
“If I was white, all America would be proud of me,” Aaron said almost a year before he passed Ruth. “But I am Black.”
The city of Atlanta as well as the state continue to express condolences for the loss of “Hammerin’ Hank.”
Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said in a written statement. “This is a considerable loss for the entire city of Atlanta. While the world knew him as ‘Hammering Hank Aaron’ because of his incredible, record-setting baseball career, he was a cornerstone of our village, graciously and freely joining Mrs. Aaron in giving their presence and resources toward making our city a better place. As an adopted son of Atlanta, Mr. Aaron was part of the fabric that helped place Atlanta on the world stage. Our gratitude, thoughts and prayers are with the Aaron family.”
When it comes to sports and exercise, you should always make time. That’s why AtlantaFi.com wants to help you with your journey. Check out how to make a home gym for cheap and even lose pounds in a hurry.
Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
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There was much excitement on Thursday night as Atlanta Falcons fans converged on the Mercedes-Benz Stadium downtown for a 2025 NFL Draft Party.
Fans sat through 14 picks before the Falcons picked former Georgia Bulldog defenseman Jalon Walker. With the 26th pick, the Falcons James Pearce Jr.
With the Falcons, Pearce joins fellow 2025 draftee Jalon Walker to bolster a pass rush that ranked 31st in the NFL with 31 sacks in 2024. His speed and pass-rush toolkit make him an immediate situational rusher with the potential to develop into an every-down player.
Minutes after Walker was drafted, his college coach, Georgia’s Kirby Smart, posted on social media about how proud he was.
Congrats Jalon Walker your dream has finally come true, and we are so grateful to have been a part of it !! Your parents have done an unbelievable job raising you, and I know they are so proud,” Kirby posted on X. “The Atlanta Falcons got a great player and an even better person. You’re a dawg for life. GO DAWGS!!”
A native of Conway, South Carolina, he attended Salisbury High School in North Carolina, where he was named the 2021 North Carolina Gatorade Football Player of the Year after recording 79 tackles and eight sacks. A five-star recruit and 2022 Under Armour All-American, Walker committed to Georgia over Clemson, North Carolina, and others.
At Georgia, Walker played three seasons (2022–2024). As a true freshman in 2022, he appeared in all 15 games, contributing nine tackles and one sack during Georgia’s National Championship win over TCU. In 2023, as a sophomore, he played in all 14 games, leading the team with five sacks and recording 20 tackles.
In 2024, his junior year, he became a starter, earning the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker and first-team All-American honors from multiple outlets, including Sports Illustrated and ESPN. He finished his college career with 89 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 12.5 sacks, notably recording three sacks and seven tackles in a single game against No. 1 Texas.
What Scouts Said About Jalon Walker
Walker’s versatility as both an off-ball linebacker and edge rusher, combined with his speed, athleticism, and physicality, made him a standout. Despite limited starting experience (11 starts), his instincts and high motor earned him comparisons to NFL players like Anthony Barr and Reggie Ragland. He declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, where he’s projected as a first-round pick, ranked as high as No. 10 by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. Off the field, Walker is a high-character student-athlete with a 4.0 GPA, aspiring to become an orthodontist, and has done voiceover work for SEC Network commercials.
Falcons Pick Pearce After Trading Up From 2nd Round
At Tennessee, Pearce emerged as a premier edge rusher, earning first-team All-SEC honors in 2023 and 2024. As a freshman in 2022, he played all 13 games, recording five tackles and two sacks. His 2023 sophomore season was a breakout, with 10 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss, ranking third and fifth in the SEC, respectively.
In 2024, he started nine of 13 games, leading the team with 7.5 sacks, 13 tackles for loss, and 55 pressures (second in the SEC per PFF). His career totals include 71 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, 19.5 sacks, and 113 quarterback pressures. At the 2025 NFL Combine, Pearce ran a 4.47-second 40-yard dash (fastest among edge rushers) with a 1.56-second 10-yard split, showcasing elite speed and athleticism.
What Scouts Said About James Pearce Jr.
Pearce’s strengths include explosive first-step quickness, bend, and a 23% pass-rush win rate in 2024 (second-best in the FBS).
However, he needs to improve run defense and block recognition, as he struggles against pulling linemen and lacks power to consistently defeat blocks. Off-field concerns, including a 2023 arrest for speeding and driving with a suspended license, have raised questions about his maturity, though he’s described himself as a “great teammate” with a “good heart.”
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Spencer Strider has been added to the Atlanta Braves starting rotation and looks the part against the Boston Red Sox on Monday.
About Spencer Strider: Braves Star Pitcher
But who is Spencer Strider? Well, for starters, he is a professional baseball pitcher for the Atlanta Braves in Major League Baseball (MLB). Born on October 26, 1998, in Columbus, Ohio, Strider played college baseball for the Clemson Tigers before being selected by the Braves in the fourth round of the 2020 MLB Draft.
High School and College Career
Spencer Strider attended Christian Academy of Louisville in Louisville, Kentucky, for high school. During his time there, he played both baseball and football, showcasing his athletic abilities.
For college, Strider played for the Clemson Tigers at Clemson University in South Carolina. He pitched for Clemson’s baseball team for three seasons (2018–2020), where he made a name for himself as a standout pitcher.
Although his college career was affected by injuries, he showed great promise and was eventually drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the fourth round of the 2020 MLB Draft.
Pro Baseball Career
Strider is known for his strong fastball, often touching triple digits, and his devastating slider. He made his MLB debut for the Braves in 2021 and quickly gained attention for his impressive strikeout ability. He became a key part of the Braves’ pitching staff, contributing significantly to their rotation and bullpen.
In 2022, Strider had a breakout season, finishing second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting, largely due to his exceptional strikeout numbers and effectiveness on the mound. He’s often praised for his poise, work ethic, and the dominance he brings as a pitcher. His rise has been one of the more exciting stories in recent MLB seasons.
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The Atlanta Falcons are releasing one of its top stalwart defensive ends, Grady Jarrett. The news comes from several NFL insiders, citing Grady’s sports agent Todd France.
Jarrett, a two-time Pro Bowler, team captain and Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, may have laced up his cleats for the Dirty Birds for the last time.
He was due to make $16.25 million this upcoming season, according to NFL insider Mike Garafolo.
Grady Jarrett: Falcons Star Being Released
Jarrett, a defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons, has been one of the team’s most consistent and dominant defenders since being drafted in the fifth round (137th overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft out of Clemson.
Career Highlights:
- Super Bowl LI Performance (2016 Season): Jarrett had a breakout moment in Super Bowl LI against the New England Patriots, tying a Super Bowl record with three sacks of Tom Brady.
- Pro Bowl Selections: He has been named to the Pro Bowl twice (2019, 2020) for his outstanding play.
- Team Leader: A cornerstone of Atlanta’s defense, Jarrett has been known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, tallying numerous sacks and tackles for loss throughout his career.
- Contract Extension: In 2019, he signed a four-year, $68 million contract extension, reaffirming his status as a franchise player.
- Injury Setback: His 2023 season was cut short due to an ACL tear in Week 8, a significant loss for the Falcons’ defense.
Playing Style:
Jarrett is renowned for his quick first step, relentless motor, and strong technique, making him a force against both the run and the pass. Despite being considered undersized for a defensive tackle (around 6’0″, 305 lbs), he has excelled with his agility and power.
Final Word
Jarrett remains one of the most respected players on the Falcons’ roster and continues to be a key leader for the franchise. Where will he end up? It’s hard to tell, but we’re confident it won’t be with the New Orleans Saints.
Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
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Fresh off a disappointing season that ended with him getting benched, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins has requested a meeting with owner Arthur Blank.
According to news reports, Cousins has a desire to start for, potentially, another team this season.
Of course, we still don’t know if Blank will agree to the meeting or whether the Falcons have a desire to part with the veteran signal caller.
If the Falcons are willing to trade Cousins, what teams would make sense?
NFL Trade Scenarios: Where Could Kirk Cousins End Up?
If Kirk Cousins were to be traded from the Atlanta Falcons, there are several NFL teams where he could potentially land, based on current team needs and quarterback situations. Here are five possible destinations:
Cleveland Browns
With uncertainty around their quarterback situation, the Browns could look for a veteran presence like Cousins to stabilize their offense.
Tennessee Titans
As they seek to rejuvenate their roster, the Titans might consider Cousins as an upgrade to their quarterback position, especially if they are looking towards a more balanced offensive strategy.
Indianapolis Colts
With their current struggles at the quarterback position, the Colts could view Cousins as a reliable option who can help them compete in the division.
New York Jets
The Jets have been searching for consistent quarterback play, and bringing in a seasoned player like Cousins could provide them with the experience and leadership they need.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers might be interested in Cousins if they decide to move on from their current quarterback situation, looking for a player who can create a more effective and stable offense.
These potential landing spots are based on each team’s current roster needs and future ambitions, with Cousins recognized as a capable quarterback who could contribute positively to a new team’s success.
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The design of Mercedes-Benz Stadium is stunning, combining modern materials like glass, steel, and concrete with dynamic shapes and open spaces.
The shining jewel of the downtown Atlanta skyline, Mercedes-Benz Stadium continues to draw crowds just to witness the sheer spectacle of it all. Not only was the venue the home of Super Bowl LIII, but it has hosted world-class events
Here’s what to know about state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Everything You Need To Know About Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Mercedes-Benz Stadium officially opened on August 26, 2017 with a Falcons preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. When it opened, the venue was crazy cool, but the retractable roof system was inoperable at the time.
Everything you need to know about Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium
The stadium is run by AMB Group,a consortium that is under the tutelage of Blank, owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, the pro soccer club.Speaking of the NFL team, the stadium was built to replace the Georgia Dome, the Falcons’ home stadium from 1992 until 2016.
Here’s what to know about the coolest features at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
1. When Was Mercedes-Benz Stadium Built?
The stadium was conceptualized in 2014 when city officials and billionaire Arthur Blank agreed on plans for a new sports venue. The stadium began construction in 2017 and opened up a year later.
2. How Much Did Mercedes-Benz Stadium Cost?
Mercedes-Benz Stadium cost $1.6 billion to build. The price tag raised some brows not only around Atlanta, but across the country.
Even with its high cost, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is not the most expansive stadium in the United States. That distinction belongs to two Western structures. In California, Los Angeles Stadium costs $2.66 billion. No. 2 on the list is Las Vegas Raiders Stadium, which comes in at $2.4 billion.
3. Does Mercedes-Benz Stadium Have A Retractable Roof?
The retractable roof of Mercedes-Benz Stadium is one of the venue’s most famous features. When the stadium opened to the public, the roof didn’t retract, but they have since fixed it.
The eight-panel retractable roof that resembled a pinwheel, but what few observers notice is that the eight triangular translucent panels create the illusion of a bird’s wings extended when it’s opened.
The stadium features a retractable roof with a unique “pinwheel” design. The roof is made of eight movable panels that open and close like the petals of a flower. This is a visually striking design and provides a cool, flexible experience for both outdoor and indoor events.
When it’s fully opened, the roof provides a wide-open view of the sky and the Atlanta skyline, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy features of the stadium.
4. Mercedes-Benz Stadium Has The Lowest Prices Of Any Major Sports Venue
When Mercedes-Benz Stadium opened in fall 2017, one of the main selling points was the fact that its concessions prices were super low. Those low prices extend to all events at the stadium, from concerts to Atlanta United games, Falcons games and more.
In 2025, food prices at the stadium dropped even lower. Stadium brass also said that a low “domestically priced” craft beer would go on sale.
5. MercBenz Has The World’s Largest Video Board
The stadium has the claim to fame as having the largest video board in the world. This is the largest LED video display on Earth. It technological masterpiece was designed, manufactured and installed by Daktronics of Brookings, South Dakota. There are also more than 82,500 square feet of video displays around the stadium.
Last Words
Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium has become top gem in the sports world.
It’s a true architectural masterpiece and has been recognized for its innovation and beauty.Design flexibility allows the stadium to be easily adapted for different events, meaning that every game or concert feels unique in the way it’s experienced.
Since fall 2017, MercBenz has hosted several major sports events, including the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game, the SEC Championship Game and the College Football National Championship Game. This is the first Super Bowl, but not the last. The stadium is booked for events through the next few years, including concerts like Beyonce, Jay Z and more.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
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Atlanta Falcons General Manager Terry Fontenot faced the media on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2025, days after the team lost its final game with a chance to go to the NFL playoffs.
Fontenot was asked several wide-ranging questions about the future of the franchise, which went 8-9 over season, dropping six of its last eight games.
“We understand that we let the fans down and we didn’t do enough this year and it’s disappointing. We know they deserve better,” Fontenot said at the Falcons training facility at Flowery Branch. “There’s no words I can say right now, it’s all about the results.”
Fontenot Plans To Keep Cousins As Backup QB
One of the more hot-topic questions was what he felt about Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, who Fontenot signed for $180 million over four years.
“We are very comfortable with Kirk as the backup,” Fontenot said.
He went on to say that he would begin evaluating the assistant and position coaches “today” and that everyone would be looked at. “We’re doing everything we can this offseason to put us in position next year to win more football games and put this team in position to be a consistent winner.”
Cousins’ contract has become a sore spot for Atlanta fans and those who want the team to build from the draft and free agency.
Kirk Cousins’ Falcons Contract: A Breakdown
Kirk Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons on March 11, 2024.
The key details of the contract include:
- Guaranteed Money: $100 million guaranteed, with a $50 million signing bonus.
- 2024 Salary: Fully guaranteed.
- 2025 Salary: Fully guaranteed at $27.5 million.
- 2026 and 2027 Roster Bonuses: $10 million due on the 5th day of the league year for each respective year.
In the 2024 season, Cousins was benched in favor of rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. after a series of underwhelming performances.
Despite this, Fontenot, has expressed comfort in retaining Cousins as a high-paid backup for the 2025 season.
Releasing Cousins before his $10 million roster bonus is due on March 12, 2025, would result in significant financial implications for the Falcons. A post-June 1 release designation could spread the cap hit over two years, potentially easing the financial burden.
As of now, the Falcons are adhering to their original plan with Cousins, keeping him under contract while exploring all available options
Head Coach Raheem Morris told fans the previous week that he was big enough to take the heat for the team’s failure to make the playoffs.
“Guys who fear failure never have success. I’m not gonna be considered that guy…,” he said. “I’ve got big shoulders. I can take the criticism. It’s fair criticism. I apologize to our fans for not getting it done, but I promise we’ll get it done soon.”
