The Falcons have been dealing with several injuries to starters, but Raheem Morris did provide several positive updates.
According to the team’s beat writer Tori McElhaney, Troy Andersen is considered day-to-day, and Drew Dalman is trending back to health while they’re in wait-and-see mode on Ruke Orhorhoro‘s injury.
Raheem Morris said Troy Andersen is "day-to-day," Ruke Orhorhoro they are waiting for more imagery and Drew Dalman is trending "back to health" and Morris said they feel really good about where he is.
— Tori McElhaney (@tori_mcelhaney) October 28, 2024
Surprisingly, Troy Andersen’s absence has impacted the Falcons’ success more than Drew Dalman’s, even though Dalman is arguably better at his position.
In Dalman’s place, the Falcons have turned to Ryan Neuzil, who has performed admirably as the team’s starting center. Atlanta’s offensive line has seen several backups step up—Neuzil for Dalman and Kyle Hinton recently filling in for Chris Lindstrom—and the unit has held its ground without missing a beat.
That’s no accident. Falcons offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford deserves credit for keeping this line consistent and competitive. That said, Dalman’s anticipated return this week, his first game in over a month, would be a valuable boost ahead of the Cowboys matchup.
On the defensive side, however, Andersen’s presence is sorely missed. Nate Landman was a promising story last year, but he seems to have regressed this season. Whether due to lingering injuries or other factors, Landman has struggled to contribute in the run game and has continued to be a liability in pass coverage.
The Falcons defense is already underperforming. Getting Andersen, along with Justin Simmons, back in action would go a long way toward helping Jimmy Lake improve this unit to at least a league-average level.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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