"Unconcerned about a reduced role, Mike Peterson, the most senior and decorated member of the Falcons' linebacker corps, had one thing in mind when he elected to re-sign with the team.

"I have the same ultimate goal that my younger teammates have," said Peterson, who turned 35 in June. "At the end of the year, we want the ring."

It's still strange to see Peterson stay on the sidelines when the coaches yell out, "First-team base!" Peterson, since signing with the Falcons in March 2008, has always been with the first unit. He now watches Stephen Nicholas, Curtis Lofton and Sean Weatherspoon take the field.

Peterson is a sub because last season he struggled in pass coverage at times. While he was still solid against the run, the team decided to go with its younger linebackers this season.

He's taken the demotion as well as can be expected. He works the sidelines, offering tips. When he gets on the field, he's quick to show he can still knock a running back's helmet sideways."