Atlanta Falcons face crucial losses ahead of Seattle showdown
The Atlanta Falcons are bracing for a challenging Week 14 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, having confirmed the absence of two pivotal starters. On Friday afternoon, the team announced that wide receiver Drake London and defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus will not be participating in Sunday’s game.
Injury Updates on Key Players
Drake London, who has been battling a knee injury, will be sidelined for the third consecutive game and the fourth in total this season due to injury. Earlier this week, head coach Raheem Morris had elevated London’s status to “day-to-day,” but he ultimately did not practice this week.
“When he’s ready to go, we’ll put him out there,” Morris stated. He emphasized the team’s commitment to London’s well-being, assuring fans that the organization would not put him in harm’s way.
Brandon Dorlus, a second-year defensive standout, has been a cornerstone for the Falcons’ defense this season, leading the team with six sacks and tying for nine tackles for loss. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, as he has not missed a game this year.
Concerns on the Defensive Line
While Dorlus is out, the Falcons will also be monitoring the status of defensive lineman David Onyemata, who is listed as questionable due to a foot injury. Onyemata practiced on Friday, providing some hope for his availability, as he plays a vital role in the team’s defensive efforts.
Adding to the injury woes, rookie James Pearce Jr. is also questionable with a back injury. Pearce has made a significant impact this season, recording 4.5 sacks in his last four games and tying with Jalon Walker for the highest sack total among rookies. Losing either Dorlus or Pearce would be a significant blow to the Falcons’ pass rush, and losing both could severely hinder their ability to pressure Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith.
Other Notable Injuries
The Falcons’ injury report also lists safety DeMarcco Hellams, who will miss the game due to a hamstring issue. On a more positive note, guard Chris Lindstrom and linebacker Josh Woods will not carry any injury designation into this week. Lindstrom, despite limited participation earlier in the week, is expected to be ready to play. Woods, who has been out since the team’s trip to Berlin, returned to full practice on Wednesday but was limited later in the week.
Injury Report Summary
The Falcons have released the following injury report ahead of their Week 14 showdown with the Seahawks:
Full Participants
TE Feleipe Franks (calf)
Limited Participants
ILB Josh Woods (hamstring)
Edge Leonard Floyd (not injury-related – resting)
G Chris Lindstrom (foot)
T Jake Matthews (not injury-related – resting)
DL David Onyemata (foot)
Did Not Participate
DL Brandon Dorlus (groin)
S DeMarcco Hellams (hamstring)
WR Drake London (knee)
Edge James Pearce Jr. (back)
Questionable
DL David Onyemata (foot)
Edge James Pearce Jr. (back)
Doubtful
n/a
Out
DL Brandon Dorlus (groin)
S DeMarcco Hellams (hamstring)
WR Drake London (knee)
As the Falcons prepare for their crucial matchup, the absence of these key players raises questions about their ability to compete effectively against the Seahawks. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how Atlanta adjusts to these significant losses on game day.
