Falcons Anticipate Divine Deablo’s Return to Bolster Defense Amid Struggles
The Atlanta Falcons are on the brink of a crucial turnaround as they look to welcome back linebacker Divine Deablo, who has been sidelined due to injury. After enduring a frustrating four-game losing streak, the potential return of Deablo in Week 12 is a glimmer of hope for a defense that has faltered in his absence.
Injury Status and Coach’s Optimism
Deablo, a key defensive player, has missed the last three games after suffering a fractured forearm during the Falcons’ loss to the 49ers in Week 8. Under league rules, he was required to spend a minimum of four weeks on injured reserve, but head coach Raheem Morris has expressed optimism about his return.
“He’s looking good,” Morris remarked on Wednesday. When pressed about the likelihood of Deablo playing against the Saints, he added, “I hope so, I think so, I believe so. Don’t want to give you any guarantees, but he looks good.”
Defensive Decline Without Deablo
The impact of Deablo’s absence on the Falcons’ defense has been stark. Since he went down, the team has not only lost all four games but also seen a significant decline in their defensive performance. Previously ranked among the league’s best, the Falcons have struggled to contain their opponents.
In the first five games of the season, the Falcons’ defense was a formidable force, boasting the second-best overall ranking in the league. Notably, they had not allowed a 100-yard rusher, a 100-yard receiver, a 200-yard passer, or 300 total yards of offense. However, all those milestones have been surpassed since Deablo’s injury.
Over the past four games, the Falcons have surrendered an alarming average of 125 more yards of total offense per game, an additional touchdown, 52 more passing yards, and 73 more rushing yards. This regression has raised concerns about the team’s ability to compete as they aim to salvage their season.
Adjustments in Defensive Strategy
In Deablo’s absence, the Falcons have adopted a committee approach to fill the void left by his injury. A rotating cast of players, including JD Bertrand, Ronnie Harrison, DeMarcco Hellams, Josh Woods, and even Billy Bowman Jr., have been tasked with stepping up.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich acknowledged the challenges but also highlighted the growth of those filling in. “I felt like there has been steady improvement from all those guys,” he stated. “The more they get to play, the more opportunities they have, the better they’ve performed. Those guys are getting better, and they’re growing. And also at the same time, hopefully Divine comes back soon.”
Looking Ahead: A Critical Matchup
If Deablo is cleared to return from IR in time for the matchup against the Saints, his presence could be pivotal for a Falcons team currently sitting at 3-6. As they strive to turn their season around, every game becomes increasingly significant. The potential return of a key player like Deablo may be just what the Falcons need to reignite their defensive prowess and shift the momentum back in their favor.
