Falcons ready for primetime battle against Vikings
The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for their inaugural primetime matchup of the season as they face off against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday Night Football. This highly anticipated game comes on the heels of a week filled with speculation surrounding a kicking competition and injuries to key wide receivers. As kickoff approaches, the Falcons have unveiled their inactive list, providing clarity on their lineup.
Key Players Active for Atlanta
Perhaps the most significant news for Falcons fans is the inclusion of Darnell Mooney and Drake London on the active roster. Both players had been limited in practice earlier in the week but were cleared ahead of the game. London, who is vital to the Falcons’ air attack, was heavily targeted in their Week 1 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, catching 15 passes before exiting with a shoulder injury. Meanwhile, Mooney, who has been sidelined due to a shoulder issue sustained during training camp, is set to make his season debut. He has a strong track record against the Vikings, having recorded six receptions for 142 yards in their previous encounter.
The Falcons are counting on both Mooney and London to elevate their offensive performance and provide much-needed firepower as they look to recover from an early season setback.
Rookies Ready to Contribute
In addition to their star receivers, the Falcons will also see rookies James Pearce Jr. and Billy Bowman Jr. take the field. Both players were previously listed as questionable due to injuries but are now ready to suit up. Pearce, a linebacker, and Bowman, a safety, will bolster the Falcons’ depth as they aim to secure a victory in Minnesota.
Kicking Changes and Other Inactives
As expected, kicker Younghoe Koo will not be participating, having stayed behind in Atlanta for non-injury reasons. In his place, newly signed kicker Parker Romo has been elevated to the active roster. Romo, who previously played for the Vikings, demonstrated his capabilities last season with an impressive 11-of-12 field goal record over four games.
The inactive list also includes wide receiver Casey Washington (concussion), primary return man Jamal Agnew (groin), and offensive lineman Jack Nelson (calf), all of whom were ruled out earlier in the week. Additionally, cornerback Clark Phillips III and defensive lineman Sam Roberts will serve as healthy scratches.
Vikings Facing Defensive Absences
The Vikings will also be missing key players in this critical matchup. Former Falcons cornerback Jeff Okudah will not be in action, and they will be without notable All-Pro defenders, including safety Harrison Smith and outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel. Other inactive Vikings players include Max Brosmer, Austin Keys, Joe Huber, and Christian Darrisaw.
Game Day Anticipation
With kickoff set for 8:20 p.m. in Minnesota, the Falcons are looking to avoid an 0-2 start to their season. As both teams prepare for this pivotal contest, the spotlight will be on the Falcons’ offense to see if they can harness the talents of their returning players and rookie contributors against a shorthanded Vikings defense.
