Aug. 9, 2006

BELLINGHAM, Wash. -

JOE SUNNEN, THE BELLINGHAM HERALD

It looks like Michael Koenen might be the Atlanta Falcons' leg for all reasons.

The former Western Washington University standout was named Atlanta's starting place kicker for the team's first preseason game against the New England Patriots this Friday.

The game will be broadcast nationally and on KIRO-7 at 5 p.m.

Koenen, the Falcons' starting punter and kickoff specialist, also has been competing for place-kicking duties this season. The Falcons released kicker Carlos Martinez on Tuesday and moved Tony Yelk to the second team. Koenen kicked a 58-yard field goal against the Patriots last season, the longest in the NFL in 2006. He also made a 60-yarder during training camp this year.

Koenen was an all-American at Western and a standout at Ferndale High School. He is entering his second season with Atlanta.