REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Atlanta Falcons Training Facility, Flowery Branch, GA

CAMP OBJECTIVES: The first training camp of the Mike Smith era is likely to include a great deal of focus on revamping the league's 29th-ranked scoring defense of a year ago. Smith, the former Jaguars defensive coordinator, needs to locate a reliable group from a roster now without former staples DeAngelo Hall (Raiders) and Rod Coleman (released). That said, most Falcons fans will be paying far greater attention to what goes on offensively, as rookie quarterback Matt Ryan (Boston College) attempts to beat out holdovers Chris Redman and Joey Harrington for the starting job. Elsewhere in the backfield, free agent pickup Michael Turner (Chargers) will begin his first year as an NFL starter, and will be trying to find any holes paved by one of the least- regarded offensive lines in the league. Kicker Jason Elam, who was lured to Atlanta after 15 seasons with the Broncos, is one of the Falcons' most notable new faces.

PRESEASON SCHEDULE:

Aug 9 - at Jacksonville, 7:30 PM Aug 16 - vs. Indianapolis, 7:30 PM Aug 22 - vs. Tennessee, 7:30 PM Aug 28 - at Baltimore, 7:00 PM