Defensive tackle Corey Peters was one of the few good things about the Falcons defensive line last year, though his year ended with a December Achilles injury.
Now after they brought him back on a one-year prove-it deal, he wants to make it back in time for the start of the regular season in time to work for a longer-term deal.
Peters told FOX Sports’ Alex Marvez and Zig Fraccasi on SiriusXM NFL Radio that he was on schedule, off crutches, and taking the next step in his rehab.
“Finally back to walking and feeling really good,” Peters said. “Now I’m able to work out and lift now that I’m off the crutches. The goal is to be ready to go by the time the season starts.
“It just depends on how everything works out. When we finish with one step we’ll move onto the next one, and hopefully we’ll have all the steps completed by the time training camp starts.”
Peters had 5.0 sacks last year, and if they can get him healthy again, he’d be a nice piece to go along with free agent additions Paul Soliai and Tyson Jackson.
Those two point to more 3-4 looks, but Peters said he thinks he’ll find a place to fit in regardless.
“I’m excited abt all the new additions. I think our defensive line will be much improved,” Peters said. “I’m no exactly sure on scheme, but we’ve been multiple in the past.
“I pride myself on being flexible, so whether that’s as an inside guy in a 4-3 or both in a 3-4.”
If he can return to last year’s form, the Falcons have the opportunity to turn a weakness into a strength, after keeping defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux and Peria Jerry as well. Having depth was a problem last year, and if Peters is well, they could have a solid front.