The Falcons have been relatively healthy this season so far but have seen a couple of young contributors go down with injuries in Drew Dalman and Nate Landman, leaving Atlanta a little thin in those areas, especially at linebacker.
So when Troy Andersen exited Sunday’s game amid a breakout performance, it hurt. With the Falcons turning around on a short week against the Buccaneers on Thursday, it’s not yet clear if Andersen will be ready.
In anticipation of potentially not having Anderson, the Falcons are making contingencies, signing an old friend. According to Adam Schefter, Atlanta is bringing back Rashaan Evans.
Former first-round pick LB Rashaan Evans is returning to Atlanta and signing with the Falcons practice squad, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 30, 2024
Evans began his career as a first-round pick with the Titans and reunited with his defensive coordinator from Tennessee, Dean Pees, in Atlanta ahead of the 2022 season.
The Alabama product started 17 games for the Falcons that season and gave solid production, but more than anything, Evans gave the Falcons some durability. He wasn’t re-signed that offseason as Ryan Nielsen replaced Pees, and Kaden Elliss, who was signed in free agency, replaced Evans.
Now that he’s back in the organization, there’s a chance he’s elevated to the active roster on Thursday if Troy Andersen isn’t able to go. The Falcons will likely start rookie JD Bertrand in place of Andersen, with Evans as a special teamer and reserve linebacker.
Josh Woods is also on the practice squad and could be activated instead of Rashaan Evans if the Falcons feel that’s a better idea.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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