Lightning halts Falcons training camp as Tagovailoa completes six passes

The Atlanta Falcons’ Day 9 training camp practice at Lanier High School in Buford, Georgia, was abruptly shortened on 8 August 2026 due to lightning in the area. The session, scheduled to commence at 7.00 p.m., concluded at approximately 8.10 p.m. before any tackling occurred, leaving a capacity crowd in the Lanier Longhorns’ bleachers disappointed.

Despite the early termination, the Falcons provided an hour of 11-on-11 drills under the Georgia summer lights. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who had missed the initial days of camp and been gradually reintegrated, took all first-team reps. He completed six of eight passes in the scrimmage periods, including two touchdown throws.

Tagovailoa’s performance included a layered pass of over 35 yards to wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus, executed off a play-action play where the protection held up effectively. He also threw touchdown passes to Jahan Dotson and Drake London, with London operating out of the slot on one of the receptions. Tight end Kyle Pitts caught a short pass from Tagovailoa during the session.

On the injury front, safety Jessie Bates III remained out for a fourth consecutive day due to a back ailment. DeMarcco Hellams took most of the work with the first team in his place. Conversely, defensive lineman Zach Harrison was activated and cleared to return to practice, offering positive news for the defensive line.

Right tackle Jawaan Taylor, who is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, remained sidelined. He was observed wearing a full leg sleeve, despite his injury being listed as an elbow or triceps issue. Right tackle Wanya Morris was also out, with Michael Jarrel continuing to receive most of the first-team reps at right tackle, alongside rotations from Ethan Onianwa and Kem Dewberry.