Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. sparks hope despite knee injury ahead of Dolphins clash
Injury Report Ahead of Week 8
As the Atlanta Falcons prepare to face the Miami Dolphins in a pivotal Week 8 matchup, the team is grappling with a wave of injury concerns. The latest injury report sheds light on the status of several key players, most notably quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who is navigating a knee injury sustained late in the previous game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Penix has been limited in practice all week, leading to a questionable designation for Sunday’s contest. However, both he and the coaching staff have expressed optimism regarding his availability, suggesting that he could indeed take the field against Miami. Coach Raheem Morris noted that backup quarterback Kirk Cousins took a significant number of first-team reps during practice, a move that seems more precautionary than indicative of Penix’s potential absence.
Key Players and Their Status
The injury report reveals a mix of promising news and ongoing concerns for the Falcons. Left tackle Jake Matthews, who has an impressive streak of 184 consecutive starts, is expected to extend that to 185 against the Dolphins. Meanwhile, wide receiver Darnell Mooney, dealing with a hamstring issue, has been limited but is officially off the injury report. His return to form could be crucial for an offense seeking consistency.
On the defensive side, the Falcons face challenges as well. Defensive lineman Zach Harrison has appeared on the injury report with a knee issue and is listed as questionable for Sunday. His impact as the team’s leading sack artist makes his status particularly noteworthy. Running back Tyler Allgeier is also a point of concern; he faced some adversity during the game against the 49ers and has been limited in practice this week due to hip and knee issues.
Additional Injury Updates
The situation is further complicated by the absence of linebacker Divine Deablo, who will miss the game after fracturing his forearm. His potential stint on injured reserve looms large, given his critical role on defense. Rookie nickel back Billy Bowman Jr. is also out with a hamstring injury, having missed the last two games, while rookie edge rusher Jalon Walker continues to be sidelined due to a groin injury.
In a surprising twist, safety Jordan Fuller is listed as questionable after opening his 21-day window to return from injury. His possible return could provide a much-needed boost to the secondary.
Looking Ahead
As the Falcons gear up for their clash with the Dolphins, the stakes are high. With injuries impacting both sides of the roster, the team’s depth will be tested. The Falcons will be counting on Penix’s resilience and the recovery of other key players to secure a much-needed victory against a struggling Miami squad.
Full Injury Report
QUESTIONABLE:
S Jordan Fuller (knee) – FP on Wed, Thurs, Fri
QB Michael Penix (knee) – LP on Wed, Thurs, Fri
RB Tyler Allgeier (hip/knee) – LP on Wed, Thurs, Fri
DL Zach Harrison (knee) – LP on Wed, Thurs, Fri
OUT:
ILB Divine Deablo (forearm) – DNP on Wed, Thurs, Fri
Edge Jalon Walker (groin) – DNP on Wed, Thurs, Fri
CB Billy Bowman Jr. (hamstring) – DNP on Wed, Thurs, Fri
OT Storm Norton (foot) – FP on Wed, Thurs, Fri
The Falcons are poised for a crucial test, as they aim to bounce back and make a statement in this matchup against the Dolphins.
