Kroy Biermann closing in on starting position

Through two exhibition games, Biermann has made two dazzling sacks and two forced fumbles and is on the verge of landing a starting position on the defensive line, unseating Jamaal Anderson, the No. 8 pick in the 2007 NFL draft.

After the 28-10 loss to New England, dejected Falcons coach Mike Smith perked up when asked if Biermann was pressing for a starting spot.

"There’s no doubt about it," Smith said. "Production is what it’s all about, and Kroy is definitely making a statement with his play in these first two ballgames."

Just don't tell Biermann that he's close to landing a starting spot. He seems oblivious to his climb to potential starter. Basically, he doesn't seem to care if he starts.

"I want to help this team win," Biermann said. "I don't care how they want to use me. I don't care if that's special teams. If it's on the [defensive] line dropping into coverage or rushing. Whatever they want me to do, I'll do it and do it to the best of my ability."

Biermann is starting to turn heads in the locker room, too.

"That's the coaches' decision, but I'm proud of him," linebacker Mike Peterson said. "I'm excited every time that he makes a big play for us."

Biermann was a fifth-round pick out of Montana in 2008. He played sparingly as a rookie and had two sacks.

Last season, as a situational pass-rusher, he finished third on the team with five sacks and scored a touchdown on a fumble recovery against the New Orleans Saints.

After three years of weight-room work, Biermann has added only five pounds, but he has improved his strength, quickness and agility.

"I'm just trying to improve on every aspect of the game whether if that's physically, putting weight on or techniques or fundamentals," Biermann said. "I just want to continue to press forward and get better."

Also, under Hamilton, Biermann has worked to refine his pass-rush moves.

"Ray has done a great job, and [John Abraham] is a great mentor," Biermann said. "I want to continue to improve. I also feel like I've come a long way."

Biermann is not comfortable talking about his success. In a way, he doesn't really understand what all the fuss is about.

"I've been doing what they want me to do," Biermann said. "I'm doing what I can to help the team win."

Biermann could be the remedy for one of the defense's major shortcomings. The unit wants to decrease the opponent's third-down conversion rate.

In the Patriots' opening drive, which ended in a touchdown, they converted all three third-down situations. If Biermann brings the heat opposite Abraham, perhaps the Falcons get off the field more on third downs.

"We didn't do very good last year on it, and we need to improve on that," Biermann said. "As a whole, as a defense we need to continue to improve."

Smith has noticed a stronger player, too.

"I think he’s changed his body since he’s gotten here," Smith said. "He’s worked very hard with our athletic-performance team. I think he’s going to continue to improve. I’ve liked what I’ve seen from Kroy in these first two preseason games."