Michael who? Falcons open camp, don't mention Vick

No wonder Smith talks about every job being up for grabs.

"This is an open camp. It's doesn't matter what position you play or who you are," he said. "Most clubs are in a different place. Some teams may know as many as 45 of the 53 players they'll keep. Obviously, this situation is much different.

"But," he quickly added, "we're excited about the opportunity to evaluate these guys and put a team together. The situation is going to be evolving - not only through camp, but probably throughout the season."

At least the Falcons had everyone in camp, reaching deals Friday with their last two unsigned draftees. Offensive tackle Sam Baker, the second of their first-round picks, and linebacker Curtis Lofton, a second-round choice, were both on the field for the opening practice, ready to compete for starting jobs.

"It was huge to get it done so all I've got to worry about is football now," said Baker, the son of outgoing Arena Football League commissioner David Baker. "You miss a day during training camp, it's like a week. You really can't afford to miss any time."

While much of the attention in camp will undoubtedly be directed toward Ryan, the No. 1 quarterback for now is Chris Redman. He finished strongly last season after becoming the third guy to get a crack at the starting job, and he's not ready to give it up to some hotshot rookie just yet.

"I think I earned my respect around here," Redman said. "I had an opportunity last year to get in there and I took full advantage of it. I want to keep it going."

The players sure welcomed holding their first practice under overcast skies, the temperatures rather mild for a July in Georgia.

Then again, this franchise can't wait for the sun to come out again.