Easton Stick grabbed the start for the Atlanta Falcons in their preseason opener against the Detroit Lions, and his debut may have elevated expectations for his role behind the starter. The newcomer completed 15 of 18 passes for 149 yards and a touchdown, showing good poise, timing, and the ability to steer the offense efficiently.
Stick’s solid performance keeps him firmly in the discussion for the Falcons’ backup duties, a competition that also included Emory Jones. Jones appeared against the Lions, finishing 4 of 5 for 45 yards. If Stick continues to build on his Week 1 showing, Atlanta could have a clearer picture of its depth behind the starting quarterback.
The article notes that while Kirk Cousins is the presumed backup heading into the season, there could still be movement at the position as the Falcons weigh options. The possibility of adjusting the depth chart could arise as the preseason progresses and more starters are on display, with Cousins carrying a hefty financial load this season—a $27.5 million salary and a $40 million cap hit.
Stick’s NFL journey began in 2019 when he was selected in the fifth round, 116th overall, by the Los Angeles Chargers after starring at North Dakota State. While with the Chargers, he spent most of his time on the practice squad, getting substantial game reps in 2023 when injuries to Justin Herbert gave him the opportunity to start four games. In those starts, Stick produced 1,129 passing yards on a 63.8% completion rate, with three touchdowns and just one interception.
The Falcons’ preseason opener against the Lions was halted due to an injury to Lions safety Morice Norris. Atlanta’s next test will come Friday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in a matchup with the Tennessee Titans.
What to watch next: If Stick continues to impress, he could solidify a role as a trusted backup behind the presumed starter and could influence Atlanta’s decisions on the veteran quarterback position as the roster moves toward the regular season. Jones’ development and any potential roster moves will also be key storylines to follow as the Falcons evaluate their depth at quarterback.
Summary: Easton Stick made a strong case for himself in his Falcons debut, showing the poise and efficiency that could push him up the depth chart behind the starter. The ongoing competition with Emory Jones, plus potential veteran considerations, will shape Atlanta’s quarterback plans as the preseason progresses. A hopeful note for Falcons fans is that depth at quarterback looks more competitive, which could translate into a more resilient and flexible offense come the regular season.