Falcons face injury turmoil ahead of Saints clash
The Atlanta Falcons are grappling with a series of injury designations as they prepare for their home finale against the New Orleans Saints in Week 18. The biggest concern arises from a trio of key pass catchers listed as questionable, a development that could significantly impact their offensive strategy.
Injury Concerns for Key Receivers
Drake London, the Falcons’ standout wide receiver, has been a frequent presence on the injury report in the latter part of the season. Following a PCL injury sustained against the Carolina Panthers, London has managed to participate in the last two games, albeit not making a substantial impact. His status remains uncertain as he is listed as questionable for Sunday’s matchup.
Joining London on the injury report is Darnell Mooney, who was added with a knee injury on Thursday. The newly acquired receiver has been limited in practice for two consecutive days, raising concerns about his availability for the pivotal game. Tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. also finds himself in a similar predicament, listed as questionable due to a knee issue.
Together, this trio—London, Mooney, and Pitts—has been instrumental in the Falcons’ aerial attack, accounting for 2,134 of the team’s 3,523 passing yards (60.5%), along with 175 receptions (55.7%) and 12 touchdowns (66.7%). Their potential absence raises significant questions about the Falcons’ offensive capabilities heading into the contest.
Additional Injury Updates
In more injury news, Mike Hughes was placed on injured reserve on Thursday, officially removing him from the Week 18 injury report. However, defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus was a non-participant in Friday’s practice due to a hamstring injury and will not be available on Sunday.
Cornerback Clark Phillips III, who had recently been designated to return from injured reserve, also missed practice. His absence will be felt in the secondary, especially against a formidable Saints offense.
On a more positive note, defensive lineman Sam Roberts and safety DeMarcco Hellams, both recently cleared for return, were full participants in practice. Their potential activation to the 53-man roster could bolster the Falcons’ defense ahead of Sunday’s game.
Looking Ahead to Sunday’s Showdown
Kickoff between the Falcons and Saints is set for 1:00 p.m. at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. As the Falcons navigate the uncertainty surrounding their injured players, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these developments play out and what implications they may have for the team’s playoff aspirations.
Injury Report Summary
Full Participation
– S DeMarcco Hellams (hamstring)
– DL Sam Roberts (knee/ankle)
Limited Participation
– WR Darnell Mooney (knee)
– WR Drake London (knee)
– TE Kyle Pitts Sr. (knee)
– S Jessie Bates III (not injury related – resting)
– ILB Kaden Elliss (not injury related – resting)
Did Not Participate
– CB Clark Phillips III (triceps/illness)
– DL Brandon Dorlus (hamstring)
Questionable
– WR Darnell Mooney (knee)
– WR Drake London (knee)
– TE Kyle Pitts Sr. (knee)
– S DeMarcco Hellams (hamstring)
– DL Sam Roberts (knee/ankle)
Doubtful
– n/a
Out
– CB Clark Phillips III (triceps/illness)
– DL Brandon Dorlus (hamstring)
