What happened: Atlanta's Aukerman reaffirmed the coaching staff's trust in wide receiver Zachariah Branch on Thursday. The endorsement follows Wednesday's decision when Stefanski kept Branch on the Falcons' return team.

Why it matters: Atlanta invested the No. 79 overall pick in the former Georgia wideout in April and steadily expanded his role in training camp around his speed and versatility. Aukerman previously challenged Branch in September to make one cut and get directly upfield on returns. Retaining the public backing of both coaches keeps the rookie entrenched in the returner spot as he refines his decision-making.

What to watch: Branch remains slated to handle return duties in Atlanta's next outing as the staff looks for decisive one-cut reads upfield.