Report: Atlanta Falcons linebacker Paul Worrilow willing to accept back up, special teams roles

Atlanta Falcons linebacker Paul Worrilow gets treated unfairly sometimes. When some fans criticize his ability or, more specifically, a lack thereof, I can't help but sympathize. That sort of criticism really amounts to an unfair knock on Worrilow, given that he's a former UDFA who has far exceeded expectations. In short, it's not his fault the Falcons have been exceptionally thin at linebacker in recent years.

In many ways Worrilow's situation resembles that of former Falcons defensive end/linebacker Kroy Biermann. Biermann, a former fifth round pick, was overused by the Falcons coaching staff and for whatever reason, the fan base took that out on him. But Worrilow has distinguished himself with his selflessness and willingness to do basically whatever it takes to help the team. (Credit to Vaughn McClure for the quote - go read his article now, if you haven't already.)

"I love running down on kickoff and all the coverages," Worrilow said. "All the teams, that's ball. Ball is ball, in my mind. Every snap is all the same to me when I'm out there. If special teams in my opportunity to put the helmet on and go there and run around and hit people and contribute to this team, that's where I'm at."

We see lots of quotes like this throughout the offseason and preseason. But this situation seems more ... authentic. Worrilow really means it when he says he will do whatever it takes to help his team and his teammates.

Your thoughts?