Falcons Injury Outlook: Key Starters, Including Michael Penix Jr., Could Make Comeback Against Patriots
In a recent update following their Week 8 defeat to the Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris provided insights into the injury statuses of several critical players, including quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and safety Jessie Bates III. With the Falcons sitting at 3-4, the potential return of these key starters could be a significant boost as they prepare for their upcoming clash with the New England Patriots.
Injury Report from Week 8
The Falcons faced a tough loss on Sunday, but Morris hinted that the injury tide might be turning in their favor. Several players who missed the game due to injuries are now on the mend. The list includes:
Michael Penix Jr. (knee)
Drake London (hip)
Zach Harrison (knee)
Billy Bowman Jr. (hamstring)
Jalon Walker (groin)
Additionally, safety Jessie Bates III sustained an ankle injury during the game. Morris provided a cautious yet optimistic assessment of Bates’ condition, stating, “It’s not a serious injury. It’ll be one of those day-to-day things.”
Day-to-Day Assessments
Morris further elaborated on the status of the other injured players, indicating that they, too, are in a day-to-day evaluation period. “Realistically, that’s just about everybody else as well: Michael Penix, Drake London, Zach Harrison. All of those guys will kind of be in the wait-and-see mode,” he said.
The coach did not specifically mention Bowman and Walker, both of whom have been sidelined for multiple games due to soft-tissue injuries but expressed confidence in their potential return. “Potentially getting back Walker this week, along with Billy [Bowman Jr.],” he noted. Morris emphasized the importance of monitoring their progress throughout the week, especially leading up to practice on Wednesday.
Prospects for Returning Players
In addition to the aforementioned players, Morris provided an update on offensive lineman Storm Norton, who has been designated to return after missing the first seven weeks of the season due to an ankle injury sustained in training camp. “He’s really close. He’ll be another guy you can add to that kind of day-to-day,” Morris explained. “Having the ability to potentially activate him and see what he can give us will be crucial.”
Norton was inactive for the game on Sunday as he awaits activation to the active roster.
Looking Ahead to Week 9
The Falcons are gearing up for a pivotal matchup against the Patriots this Sunday, marking the first leg of a two-game road trip that will also take them to Germany. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Foxborough, and the potential returns of Penix, Bates, and other key players could significantly influence the team’s performance as they look to bounce back from their recent loss.
