Falcons Adjust Linebacker Strategy Following Deablo’s Injury
The Atlanta Falcons find themselves in a state of upheaval in their linebacker unit after the injury of Divine Deablo, a key player who had significantly contributed to their defensive strength. Following his forearm fracture sustained in a game against San Francisco, the coaching staff has been forced to rethink their approach, leaning heavily on Ronnie Harrison and JD Bertrand to fill the void.
JD Bertrand Steps Up Amidst Challenges
In the recent contest against Miami, JD Bertrand was thrust into the spotlight, taking the field for an impressive 68 snaps out of a possible 69. Though he recorded nine tackles, his performance highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in coverage and positional awareness. Head coach Raheem Morris was candid in his assessment post-game, noting, “It wasn’t good enough from an overall standpoint.” This acknowledgment underscores the challenges Bertrand faced, despite his significant playing time.
Morris also emphasized the need for a collaborative approach within the linebacker corps. “He was able to get out there and do a little bit with Ronnie Harrison,” he explained, indicating a strategic adjustment to incorporate Harrison more effectively into the game plan. This collaboration is critical as the team seeks to optimize their defensive strategies in the absence of Deablo.
Ronnie Harrison’s Emerging Role
As the situation developed, Harrison’s role expanded considerably in Week 9 against the New England Patriots. After participating in just 15 snaps against the Dolphins, he took on 41 snaps (68%) in the subsequent game. This marked a significant increase in his involvement, while Bertrand’s snaps decreased to 30 (44%). This shift highlights the coaching staff’s adaptability in response to the evolving dynamics of the team.
Morris elaborated on the adjustments, stating, “We planned it with the three-headed monster going out there,” referring to the mixed use of both players. He noted the balance of opportunities between Harrison and Bertrand, with Harrison trending toward earning more playing time due to his performance. “Ronnie’s certainly earning more snaps every single week,” Morris affirmed, recognizing the progress of the converted safety who initially joined the team as a practice squad player.
Looking Ahead: Tough Matchup Against the Colts
The Falcons now face a formidable challenge as they prepare to take on the Indianapolis Colts, who boast the league’s top offense and a standout running back in Jonathan Taylor, a contender for Offensive Player of the Year. The success of Atlanta’s defense in this upcoming matchup will largely hinge on how well their newly configured linebacker corps can adapt to the demands of the game.
With Troy Andersen’s availability still uncertain and Josh Woods not contributing to the snap count, it appears that Harrison and Bertrand will remain the backbone of the Falcons’ defense for the time being. The stakes are high; the Falcons must find a way to shore up their defense against a Colts team that can exploit any weaknesses. The next game will serve as a pivotal moment for the Falcons as they navigate this period of transition on their roster.
