According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, the Falcons have released veteran wide receiver Cameron Batson, which clears a path for UDFA Jared Bernhardt to make the active 53-man roster.
Bernhardt’s story has given rise to a cultish following — a former quarterback that led Ferris St. to a DII national title, passing for 1,322 yards, 11 touchdowns, five interceptions and rushing for 1,421 yards and 26 touchdowns. The Bulldogs went 14-0 and defeated Valdosta State, 58-17, in the title game. And now he’s scrapping and clawing to make the active 53-man roster.
Bernhardt has consistently shown up for the Falcons. He recorded three receptions for 67 yards in the team’s loss to the Jets but also hauled in the go-ahead touchdown the week prior against the Lions. Bernhardt is a prototypical Bill Belichick UDFA, so I’m surprised he didn’t wind up in New England. However, if the Falcons release him and hope to land him on the practice squad, they better think twice. Multiple teams will be interested in Bernhardt if he hits the waivers. I feel great about him making the active 53-man roster.
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