atlanta ga, September 6, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Falcons are optimistic about their defensive line as Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus, both second-year players, aim for breakout seasons. With the departure of veteran Grady Jarrett, these promising linemen are stepping into key roles. Orhorhoro has shown great potential during preseason, while Dorlus has made significant impacts, including impressive performance metrics. They are expected to enhance the team’s sack production and overall defensive capabilities this season, taking advantage of a new aggressive scheme introduced by coach Jeff Ulbrich.
Atlanta Falcons’ Defensive Linemen Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus Set for Breakout Seasons
The Atlanta Falcons are looking towards a promising season, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, with second-year defensive linemen Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus poised to have breakout performances. Following key departures on the defensive line, both players have shown substantial potential during the preseason, making them crucial figures for the team’s upcoming challenges.
Orhorhoro, selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, faced a limited rookie season, participating in just eight games. However, strong endorsements from the coaching staff highlight his impressive work ethic, energy, and emerging leadership skills. With the offseason departure of veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, Orhorhoro is now expected to take on a primary role in anchoring the team’s defensive line.
During the recent training camp, Orhorhoro showcased his abilities, frequently registering sacks, particularly during practice sessions against backup quarterback Kirk Cousins. In the preseason, he played 66 snaps, recording four pressures and four tackles. The introduction of a new aggressive defensive scheme by returning defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, which reflects the gameplay style Orhorhoro excelled at in college, only enhances his prospects this season.
In contrast, Dorlus, a fourth-round selection at 109th overall from Oregon, had a quiet rookie year after playing just 19 snaps. Nevertheless, his college career marked him as a standout player, leading all NCAA defensive tackles with 134 total pressures from 2021 to 2023. Coach Ulbrich has expressed optimism regarding Dorlus’s pass-rushing abilities and quick movements, indicating the player’s suitability for the newly adopted aggressive defensive scheme.
In his 34 preseason snaps, Dorlus made a meaningful impact, achieving three total pressures, including a sack, along with two hurries and four tackles. According to Pro Football Focus, Dorlus earned an impressive 89.7 preseason grade, ranking him as the 10th-best pass-rusher in Week 1. He is now listed as a starter on the Falcons’ online depth chart and is eager to contribute after a relatively subdued start to his professional career.
Dorlus’s aspirations for the upcoming season include enhancing the team’s overall performance, particularly in sack production. The Falcons finished 31st in sacks last season, indicating a pressing need for improvement. Both Dorlus and Orhorhoro stand at the forefront of this transformation, with their growing experience and skills essential to the defensive unit’s success.
While the Falcons’ defensive line displays potential, it remains largely untested as the new season approaches. The performances of both Orhorhoro and Dorlus during the preseason offer a glimmer of hope for fans looking for a resurgence in defensive capabilities. With the combination of fresh talent and an aggressive scheme, the Atlanta Falcons are preparing to make strides in their upcoming campaign.
FAQ
Who are Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus?
Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus are second-year defensive linemen for the Atlanta Falcons, both of whom are expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s defensive strategies for the upcoming season.
What are the key stats from their preseason performances?
In the preseason, Ruke Orhorhoro recorded four pressures and four tackles in 66 snaps, while Brandon Dorlus achieved three pressures, one sack, and four tackles in 34 snaps.
What impact did Grady Jarrett’s departure have on the defensive line?
The departure of Grady Jarrett opened up opportunities for younger players like Orhorhoro and Dorlus to step into more significant roles within the defensive line.
What changes are being made to the Falcons’ defensive scheme?
Returning defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has reinstated an aggressive defensive scheme that emphasizes intense pressure on opponents and has been well received by both Orhorhoro and Dorlus.
What goals do Dorlus and Orhorhoro have for the upcoming season?
Both players aim to increase the Falcons’ sack totals and contribute to improving the overall defensive unit after a challenging previous season.
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Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: Atlanta Falcons’ Defensive Linemen Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus Set for Breakout Seasons
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Falcons
- Atlanta Falcons Official: NFL Power Rankings Week 1 2025 Season
- Google Search: Atlanta Falcons
- Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons Players on Depth Chart
- Encyclopedia Britannica: National Football League
- The Falcoholic: Falcons Vibe Check Heading into Week 1 vs. The Buccaneers
- Google News: Atlanta Falcons NFL
- Blogging Dirty: Jessie Bates’ Praise of Falcons Rookies
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