ATL Standard

Jerry Gray, the Falcons' assistant head coach for defense, emphasizes visualization in his coaching philosophy. His approach is encapsulated in the question he frequently asks his players: "What do you see?"

Gray's extensive experience includes a Hall of Fame college career and an All-Pro professional stint, which has shaped his understanding of football. He believes that coaching involves passing the game on to the next generation and focuses on what his players perceive rather than what he sees himself.

Gray's teaching method originated during his time as a young player at the University of Texas. Lou Tice, founder of the Pacific Institute and expert in cognitive psychology, introduced him to visualization techniques. Tice taught athletes how to visualize success before it occurs, which resonated with Gray and influenced his playing career.

"The brain is a lot more powerful than you give it credit for," Gray said. He explains that one can create positive or negative scenarios in their mind through visualization.

In practice, Gray uses film sessions to help players visualize plays. He watches his players' reactions instead of focusing on the screen. Afterward, he encourages them to imagine themselves making plays during games. This mental preparation aims to create neural pathways needed for executing plays on the field.

Players like Justin Simmons and Jessie Bates III appreciate this method, believing that mental reps are as effective as physical ones. "Some players wait until Sunday to try to make great plays," Gray said. "But I tell them...you will make the plays on Sunday."

Gray's methods have earned him respect among Falcons defensive backs, who call him "OG." Mike Hughes describes him as "very old school" but appreciates how visualization helps him imagine making plays while watching film.

Jessie Bates III values Gray's openness to feedback from players: "He's super open to hearing how we see it so we can all get on the same page."

After each defensive series on Sundays, Gray asks players what they saw on the field. This helps him guide them based on their observations.

Justin Simmons praises Gray: "He's one of the best I have been around...Jerry is the epitome of that."

Through visualization techniques, Jerry Gray continues shaping Falcons' secondary by teaching them that success starts in their minds long before it happens physically.