Falcons Recap: Kirk Cousins gets in scuffle, Zach Harrison returns

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The Atlanta Falcons wrapped up their eighth training camp practice this morning in Flowery Branch, but not before making a few roster tweaks. The team released a former second-round pick while another key defensive player returned from injury. However, Friday's top stories were centered around two former players.

In today's Falcons Wire Recap, Deion Jones signs with the rival Saints, Kirk Cousins gets in a scuffle with his Raiders teammate, defensive lineman Zach Harrison returns from the NFI list, and we watch a few highlights from practice No. 8.

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Kirk Cousins vs. Raiders DE Maxx Crosby?

Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, aka the human embodiment of white bread, has never been known as a troublemaker. However, the veteran QB apparently got into a little scuffle with Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby on Friday. According to an ESPN report, Cousins got heated after what he felt was an unnecessary hit from his teammate.

"Tempers flared during the Raiders' eighth training camp practice Friday," wrote ESPN's Brian McFadden. "Defensive end Maxx Crosby hit quarterback Kirk Cousins twice during the team period. And when Crosby hit Cousins' arm a second time, the 15-year veteran had had enough. Cousins got into Crosby's face, grabbing the All-Pro's jersey, while both exchanged words before it was broken up."

Falcons DL Zach Harrison activated from NFI list

The Falcons are thin up front after losing edge Jalon Walker for the season, but they got a positive development on Friday afternoon. According to team reporter Will McFadden, defensive lineman Zach Harrison has been taken off of the NFI list and can return to practice on Saturday. This is a big development for a player who has shown a ton of promise when healthy.

Former Falcons LB Deion Jones signs with Saints

The New Orleans Saints are signing former Falcons linebacker Deion Jones, Adam Schefter reported on Friday afternoon. Jones spent his first six NFL seasons in Atlanta (2016-2021), where he made one Pro Bowl (2017) and recorded 652 tackles (428 solo), 11 interceptions, 8.5 sacks and 44 passes defended.

The former second-round pick now joins former Falcons linebacker Kaden Elliss in New Orleans. According to Schefter, Jones is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Saints. Once he does so, the former LSU standout will have officially played for all four NFC South teams.

Falcons' plans for rookie WR Zachariah Branch

Third-round pick Zachariah Branch has made a strong impression thus far at training camp, but what will his role be this season? According to Josh Kendall at The Athletic, the Falcons won't be using their rookie burner in just one role - but instead they plan to play him all over the field.

"The Falcons plan to line up Branch at all three wide receiver spots, but his quickest path to playing time is probably the F (slot) position where veteran Olamide Zaccheaus is still taking most of the first-team snaps," wrote Kendall. "Branch is looming, though, and everyone in Atlanta can see it."

Falcons cut Troy Andersen

The Falcons cut Troy Andersen and signed wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson to their 90-man roster on Friday morning. Andersen, a former second-round pick, has been hindered by injuries for much of his career. He recorded 135 tackles (75 solo), one interception and one forced fumble in 26 games for Atlanta.

Wilkerson, 29, has only appeared in nine NFL games and hasn't played in a regular season contest since the 2024 season. While he has just six career catches for 60 receiving yards and three touchdowns, Wilkerson can provide depth and help out on special teams.

Michael Penix, Tua Tagovailoa throw highlight TD passes

Both and Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa made some nice throws at Friday's practice. Tagovailoa reportedly went 4-for-5 in 11-on-11 drills, while Penix went 6-for-9 in 7-on-7s, including a pretty pass to Drake London in the back of the end zone for a touchdown (watch below).

Meanwhile, Tua threw a perfect pass to Bijan Robinson who took off up the left sideline. Check out Tagovailoa's touchdown to Bijan below.

Falcons DL Brandon Dorlus Mic'd up for practice

Last year, defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus exploded onto the scene to finish second on the team with 8.5 sacks. The former Oregon standout will look to build upon his impressive second season in 2026. Dorlus was mic'd up at practice this week. Watch below, as shared by the team's YouTube channel.

The Falcons will return tomorrow evening with their "Saturday Night Lights" practice at Lanier High School. Practice starts at 7 p.m. ET.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons Recap: Kirk Cousins gets in scuffle, Zach Harrison returns

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