Falons kicker Nick Folk adjusts to new role in Cobb County

The Atlanta Falcons will rely on veteran kicker Nick Folk for field goals in the 2026 season, a shift from the team's previous reliance on punter and kicker Zac Robinson. The adjustment has required a different approach from special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman, who spent the offseason ensuring Folk feels supported in his new capacity.

Aukerman stated that his primary responsibility is maintaining Folk's mental focus rather than adjusting his physical technique. The coordinator said he wants to ensure Folk knows the coaching staff is present if a kick is missed. Aukerman added that the team has full confidence in Folk and that he will move on to the next attempt after a miss.

"My biggest thing is I just want to support him, make sure that he knows that I'm there," Aukerman said. "If he does miss a kick, I know the next one, we have all the confidence in the world with him."

The Falcons are 2-5 this season. Folk has made two of his three field goal attempts since joining the roster. The team's defensive line includes edge rusher Ken Rose, who will face the Dallas Cowboys' offensive line. The Falcons also feature quarterback Zac Robinson, who has started all five games this season.

Robinson described the process of adapting to a new defensive system as a continuous learning curve. He noted that understanding the nuances of the scheme takes time, especially for a player who has been in the league for several years. Robinson said he is comfortable with the current setup but acknowledged that adjustments are necessary for every game.

"It's a process, right? You don't get it all at once," Robinson said. "You have to keep learning. It's just another step in the process."

The Falcons will play the Cowboys at home this week. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. The team's last home game was against the New York Jets, which they won 24-17.