Smith says Trufant, Alford, other first-year players pass test in Falcons' intense rookie camp
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Mike Smith says he tried to test Atlanta Falcons rookies with an overload of information in a short period of time.
The coach says the first-year players survived the test during three practices at the rookie camp which ended Sunday. The rookie class, topped by Atlanta's first two draft picks, cornerbacks Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford, also showed skills to impress Smith and his staff.
The draft picks were joined by undrafted rookie free agents and first-year players invited for tryouts. It was the start of what Smith said is the "recalibration" of the Falcons roster.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Highlights included the speed of Trufant and Alford, the strength and pass-rush promise of defensive end Malliciah Goodman and the size and good hands of 6-foot-8 tight end Levine Toilolo.