Atlanta Falcons shake up roster with key moves ahead of Week 14
The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for their Week 14 showdown against the Seattle Seahawks at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. In preparation for this crucial matchup, the team has made several significant roster changes that could have far-reaching implications for the remainder of the season.
DeMarcco Hellams heads to injured reserve
In a disappointing turn of events, safety DeMarcco Hellams has been placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least the next four games—and possibly the entire season. This marks the second consecutive year that the young safety has found himself on IR.
Hellams has been dealing with a hamstring injury that prevented him from participating in practice this week. While he was active during the Falcons’ recent loss to the New York Jets, he did not record any statistics but contributed with 28 snaps on special teams. Over the course of the season, he has appeared in 11 games, primarily focusing on special teams, where he has tallied 10 tackles and a fumble recovery.
Deven Thompkins gets the call-up
To fill the void left by Hellams, the Falcons have promoted wide receiver Deven Thompkins from the practice squad to the active roster. Thompkins had a brief appearance last Sunday, where he played nine offensive snaps and contributed five snaps on special teams.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris praised Thompkins for adding a “speed element” to the receiving corps. In his limited time on the field, he caught two passes from Kirk Cousins for a total of 23 yards, including a notable 19-yard reception. Cousins has expressed admiration for the young receiver, emphasizing his commitment to details and discipline.
“I think he runs really well,” Cousins noted about Thompkins. “He’s another guy that really wants to do it right. Even during jog-throughs, he maintains a disciplined approach to his footwork and technique. I appreciate his focus on the details, and I see that in practice regularly.”
C.J. Henderson elevated for Sunday’s game
In another strategic move, cornerback C.J. Henderson has been elevated from the practice squad for the upcoming game against Seattle. A former first-round pick in 2020, this elevation marks his first opportunity to make an impact for the Falcons this season. Henderson has two additional elevations available as the team seeks to bolster its defensive lineup.
As the Falcons prepare for this pivotal game, these roster adjustments signal a shift in strategy that could define their path forward. The team’s depth will be tested, and the contributions from Thompkins and Henderson could prove vital as they look to secure a much-needed victory.
