DALTON, Ga. (AP) — The rule for the Falcons-Titans combined practice was no tackling to the ground.
Tell that to Falcons coach Mike Smith, who took the biggest hit of the day.
Smith was leveled early in Monday’s practice as he stood on the Falcons logo painted on the 50-yard line of the Coahulla Creek High School field. The coach was hit by Atlanta receiver Drew Davis, who was working against Titans cornerback Chris Hawkins.
Smith landed hard but bounced up quickly, readjusting his white Falcons cap.
Asked after the practice if he was OK, a smiling Smith said reporters should check with Davis “and see how he’s feeling.”
Smith and Titans coach Mike Munchak said the practice provided a needed change of pace before the first preseason games this week.