Falcons outside linebacker Bralen Trice is continuing his recovery from a torn ACL and making significant strides aiming for a potential return by training camp. Head coach Raheem Morris stressed that while Trice is not yet back to full capacity, his progress is encouraging as he spends considerable time with the team’s physical therapists.
“He is at the point where he’s out there with our PT,”
Morris said, via Terrin Wack of the team’s site.
“I don’t want to misstep with my words. He is with him most of the time. He’s doing a couple things on the side. He’s doing a lot of the running things. But definitely not at the ‘full’ category yet if we were doing some of those things. So, he’s working his way back.”
Buccaneers Focus on Developing Desmond Watson’s Endurance
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers continue to evaluate undrafted defensive tackle Desmond Watson, who has drawn attention for his exceptional size. Head coach Todd Bowles noted that Watson’s integration into the team is gradual and centered on building his endurance rather than immediate playing time.
“To judge him right now is very early, and we didn’t get him for the tush push — we got him because we really thought he could play,”
Bowles explained, via Jenna Laine of ESPN.com.
“It’s just a matter of getting him to the point where he can play more than two or three plays [per drive]. Right now, we just have to see how long he can stay on the field, and we put him on a program where we think he can make some progress. We didn’t get him to say, ‘Hey, we have to put you on the field right now.’ It’s, ‘Hey, we can try to put you on this program and see what we can come up with and see if we can get our endurance better,’ and have him become a better player that way, then kind of see where he is.”
Buccaneers defensive line coach Charlie Strong emphasized Watson’s willingness to work hard, despite questions surrounding his size.
“We just haven’t seen someone that size,”
Strong said.
“He works, and he don’t mind working. I know with his size, everybody wants to make a big deal about it. But our players — even the guys who are around him right now in our room — they just look at him like, ‘He’s just like us. He’s got to go about his work and do his job.’”
Panthers Coach Highlights Hunter Renfrow’s Steady Return
The Carolina Panthers’ head coach Dave Canales shared an update on wide receiver Hunter Renfrow, who has been sidelined since 2023. Canales praised Renfrow’s consistent improvement as he regains his agility and on-field skills during his recovery.
“You see weekly, he just makes these huge strides, just getting his feet under him,”
Canales said.
“And I can tell too, just having coached wide receivers especially, but he’s got a lot in his game. Releases, top-of-the-route setup, avoidance, different things where he can double up stuff at the top of his routes. And you can see him kinda working through his inventory, kinda his tool bag—if you will. And it’s been really cool just to watch him, as his feet get underneath him and the explosiveness and all the little things show up, it’s been really fun to see.”
Implications and Outlook for Injured Players in the NFL
The progress of Bralen Trice is a hopeful sign for the Falcons as they look to solidify their linebacker corps heading into the season. His disciplined approach to rehabilitation, supported by attentive training staff, positions him as a possible contributor when training camp begins.
Similarly, the Buccaneers’ careful management of Desmond Watson’s conditioning reflects a long-term investment in a unique player, balancing physical readiness with strategic development. For the Panthers, Hunter Renfrow’s gradual but steady recovery highlights the importance of patience and methodical training for athletes recovering from injury.
As NFL teams monitor these players, their recoveries will be closely watched for how they can impact the upcoming season rosters and game plans. The Falcons, Buccaneers, and Panthers all appear committed to providing the necessary support for their athletes to return safely and effectively.