Falcons Face Injury Setbacks Ahead of Saints Showdown
The Atlanta Falcons received troubling news as they prepared for their Week 12 matchup against the New Orleans Saints. The team confirmed that rookie cornerback Billy Bowman Jr. has sustained an Achilles injury, adding to a growing list of concerns ahead of this crucial game.
Injury Woes Pile Up
In recent days, the Falcons have already grappled with significant losses. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to an ACL injury, while wide receiver Drake London is dealing with a PCL injury that will keep him out indefinitely. Now, with Bowman’s injury, the Falcons face the prospect of missing yet another young talent. Head coach Raheem Morris described Bowman’s condition as “not good,” confirming that he will miss at least Sunday’s contest, with the potential for a longer absence depending on the severity of the injury.
Bowman’s Achilles issue compounds an existing struggle with soft tissue injuries that have already limited his playing time in his rookie season. This latest setback puts him alongside London, defensive lineman Zach Harrison, and inside linebacker Josh Woods on the inactive list for Week 12.
Shuffling the Roster
In a slight silver lining, cornerback Dee Alford has successfully cleared concussion protocol and is set to step in for Bowman. Additionally, outside cornerback Mike Hughes has returned from injury and will be available to play after missing the last two games.
However, the Falcons’ offensive line remains a concern, with both guards, Chris Lindstrom and Matthew Bergeron, listed as questionable for the game. Bergeron, who has missed the last two games, remains optimistic about his return. Meanwhile, Lindstrom has been dealing with a foot injury since the matchup against New England but has managed to play through it.
Positive Developments
Linebacker Divine Deablo has been designated to return and is expected to play on Sunday, having participated fully in practices this week. While still listed as questionable since he is not on the team’s 53-man roster, his activation appears imminent.
Injury Report Overview
The injury report from Friday’s practice provides a comprehensive look at the team’s current health status as they head into the pivotal game against the Saints:
FULL PARTICIPANT:
CB Mike Hughes (neck)
ILB Divine Deablo (forearm)
CB Dee Alford (concussion)
S Xavier Watts (illness)
ILB Malik Verdon (shoulder)
DL Brandon Dorlus (oblique)
G Matthew Bergeron (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPANT:
LB Kaden Elliss (not injury related – resting)
T Jake Matthews (not injury related – resting)
G Chris Lindstrom (foot)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE:
WR Drake London (knee)
ILB Josh Woods (hamstring)
DL Zach Harrison (knee)
CB Billy Bowman Jr. (Achilles)
Edge Leonard Floyd (hamstring)
S Jessie Bates III (not injury related – personal)
LS Liam McCullough (not injury related – personal)
DL David Onyemata (not injury related – resting)
QUESTIONABLE:
ILB Malik Verdon (shoulder)
Edge Leonard Floyd (hamstring)
G Chris Lindstrom (foot)
G Matthew Bergeron (ankle)
OUT:
WR Drake London (knee)
ILB Josh Woods (hamstring)
DL Zach Harrison (knee)
CB Billy Bowman Jr. (Achilles)
As the Falcons gear up for their important clash against the Saints, the impact of these injuries will undoubtedly weigh heavily on their game strategy and execution. The team will need to adapt quickly to overcome these challenges if they hope to secure a victory.
