Falcons designate DeMarcco Hellams for return from injury ahead of crucial Saints matchup
The Atlanta Falcons made a significant announcement on Wednesday, designating safety DeMarcco Hellams to return from injured reserve just days before their Week 18 clash with the New Orleans Saints. This move has stirred excitement among fans who have been eagerly anticipating Hellams’ return to the field.
Hellams’ Injury History
Hellams has been sidelined since Week 14 due to a hamstring injury, which has kept him off the field since he last played against the New York Jets. Interestingly, he logged substantial playing time during that game without any immediate signs of injury, making the sudden appearance of the hamstring issue somewhat perplexing. The timeline for his recovery remains uncertain, but the opportunity to return has arrived.
With this designation, the Falcons now have a 21-day window to activate Hellams from injured reserve. However, with their postseason hopes dashed, the focus is entirely on the upcoming matchup against the Saints. Should the Falcons choose to activate Hellams for Sunday’s game, they would need to make a corresponding move to cut someone from their 53-man roster. If not activated, Hellams may participate in practice as he continues to work towards a return.
Recent Moves and Team Dynamics
Hellams is the third player the Falcons have designated for return during this late-season stretch, following Clark Phillips III and Sam Roberts, who received similar designations last week. Neither Phillips nor Roberts saw action in the recent game against the Los Angeles Rams, raising questions about the team’s depth and strategic decisions as they head into the final week of the season.
In the 11 games Hellams participated in this season, he primarily contributed on special teams, recording 10 tackles and recovering a fumble. His previous season was marred by an ankle injury sustained during the preseason, which kept him on injured reserve for the entirety of the regular season in 2024.
In a related roster move, the Falcons have bolstered their practice squad by signing defensive lineman Patrick Jenkins, a 6-foot-2, 293-pound rookie undrafted free agent. This addition may provide further depth as the team navigates the challenges of the final game of the season.
As the Falcons prepare to face the Saints, the return of Hellams, whether immediate or in the near future, could be a pivotal development for a team looking to close out the season on a high note.
