The Falcons are preparing for America’s Team to come to Atlanta, and injuries could be a key factor in what decides this matchup.
The Cowboys will be without DeMarcus Lawrence, Brandin Cooks, and Marshawn Kneeland and could be without Micah Parsons, DaRon Bland, Jordan Phillips, and Chuma Edoga. That’s a lot of critical pieces.
Meanwhile, Raheem Morris updated the Atlanta media on a slew of Falcons injuries. Drew Dalman “is doing really well.” Justin Simmons “should be back to his normal program.” Troy Andersen will be “progressing a little further” in practice this week. It’s not all good news, though. Rookie Ruke Orhorhoro is “not looking great.”
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris with a full injury update:
— C Drew Dalman (ankle; injured reserve) "is doing really well."
— CB Antonio Hamilton Jr. (back) made it through the game OK.
— DT Ruke Orhorhoro (ankle) is TBD but "not looking great."
— S Justin Simmons…— Terrin Waack (@TerrinWaack) October 30, 2024
The Falcons have managed to cope with the loss of starting center Drew Dalman, thanks to Ryan Nuezil stepping in and performing admirably. However, the same cannot be said for the other reserves on the roster.
Richie Grant’s performance in place of Justin Simmons on Sunday didn’t show any marked improvement; he looked just as he has throughout his Falcons career, and unfortunately, that’s not a positive sign. The absence of Andersen has been particularly impactful.
Overall, the Falcons’ defense has struggled, and the second level of the unit hasn’t lived up to expectations set at the beginning of the season. Kaden Elliss has regressed, and Nate Landman appears to be a shadow of the player he was last year.
One of the major contributors to the defense’s lackluster performance has been its run defense. The return of Andersen and Simmons should certainly provide a boost in that area, helping to address some of the ongoing issues the unit is facing.
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Photographer: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire
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