Atlanta Falcons Call On Rex Grossman For Physical, Workout


As the pre-season rolls on, NFL teams try to sure up their regular season rosters. The Atlanta Falcons are looking to do that by bringing in veteran backup quarterback Rex Grossman.

Grossman, who turned 35 just a few days ago, is being brought in by the Falcons for a workout, as well as a physical. ESPN first reported the news this week.

Atlanta coach Dan Quinn announced the Grossman news during a news conference on Tuesday.

“I think, just like at every position, we’re happy with the two guys we have, but when there’s a time to come work out somebody and see where he’s at or so where the player is at or how we can help improve, we’re going to look at that every chance we get,” Quinn said. “Wouldn’t look too much into that other than that’s another opportunity for us to do that.”

When asked if he was satisfied with his backup two options in Sean Renfree and T.J. Yates, Quinn said that he was, but hoped that competition brought on by Grossman would help improve the situation as a whole.

“I think so, yeah,” Quinn responded. “If there’s a way to say, ‘OK, can we still compete and battle for it to improve in a little way?’ then we’ll still try to do that. I think it’s at all the spots, whether it be any of them.”

Grossman hasn’t played in an NFL game since 2011, but has playoff experience as part of the 2005 and 2006 Chicago Bears teams. Grossman did, however, spend 2012 and 2013 with the Washington Redskins as their third-string quarterback.

Last week, reports emerged that Grossman had passed up an offer for the New York Jets in an effort to rekindle a partnership with Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan. Grossman had previously played for Shanahan during his time with the Washington Redskins. Shanahan put over Grossman’s toughness in a recent interview with ESPN.

It’s pretty safe to say that the Atlanta Falcons won’t be looking for Grossman to take snaps in the regular season if they can help it, but having a veteran QB vying for a backup spot and creating competition probably won’t hurt things. The fact that Grossman is familiar with Shanahan’s offensive scheme will also be another factor playing into his favor in the race.

Grossman isn’t the only veteran making his case for another shot in the NFL, as Michael Vick has actively been shopping himself around.

[Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images Sport]

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