Michael Penix Jr. Knee Injury Raises Concerns Ahead of Dolphins Showdown
The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Miami Dolphins this Sunday, but the team’s preparations have been overshadowed by injury concerns for several key players. As they returned to Flowery Branch, Georgia, the Falcons faced uncertainty regarding the availability of some of their prominent starters and reserves.
Injury Report Highlights
Thursday’s practice revealed a clearer picture of the team’s health status, following an estimation from Wednesday when the team did not practice. The most pressing concern for the Falcons remains quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who is dealing with a knee injury described by head coach Raheem Morris as a “bone bruise.” Penix was limited in practice for the second consecutive day, but he expressed optimism about his ability to play when he spoke to the media earlier in the week.
The offensive line also faces challenges, with left tackle Jake Matthews nursing an ankle issue. Matthews, who has maintained an impressive streak of NFL starts, was listed as a limited participant on Thursday. Despite the discomfort, he played with a significant ankle brace in the previous game, and it seems likely that he will continue to push through the pain against Miami.
Wide Receiver and Running Back Concerns
Darnell Mooney, who has been recovering from a hamstring injury, was again limited in practice on Thursday. After returning to action in Week 7 with three receptions for 68 yards, he appears to be trending positively for the upcoming game. Meanwhile, running back Tyler Allgeier is also listed as limited with hip and knee issues, and defensive lineman Zach Harrison is dealing with a knee concern as well.
The injury list expanded with the addition of edge rusher Leonard Floyd, who was held out for rest, and tight end Feleipe Franks, who is managing a calf issue.
Defensive Woes and Other Absences
The Falcons’ defense could be further impacted by the absence of rookie cornerback Billy Bowman Jr., who has missed the last two games due to a hamstring injury, and edge rusher Jalon Walker, who was sidelined last Sunday with a groin issue. Both players did not participate in Thursday’s practice, raising questions about their availability for the Dolphins game.
Linebacker Divine Deablo also remained a non-participant with a forearm injury, and there’s a possibility he may be placed on injured reserve as the team evaluates his condition.
On a more positive note, safety Jordan Fuller and offensive tackle Storm Norton participated fully in practice, indicating that they are likely to play. Special teams ace KhaDarel Hodge also returned as a full participant after not being listed on Wednesday.
Full Injury Report Summary
The Falcons’ injury report following Thursday’s practice is as follows:
Full Participants
WR KhaDarel Hodge (pectoral)
S Jordan Fuller (knee)
OT Storm Norton (foot)
Limited Participants
WR Darnell Mooney (hamstring)
QB Michael Penix Jr. (knee)
RB Tyler Allgeier (hip/knee)
CB Mike Ford (calf)
T Jake Matthews (ankle)
DL Zach Harrison (knee)
Edge Leonard Floyd (rest)
TE Feleipe Franks (calf)
Did Not Participate
ILB Divine Deablo (forearm)
Edge Jalon Walker (groin)
CB Billy Bowman Jr. (knee/hamstring)
As the Falcons look to secure a victory against a Dolphins team that has struggled, the health of these key players will undoubtedly play a significant role in their performance on Sunday. The coming days will reveal whether Atlanta can field its best squad, or if injuries will force them to adapt ahead of the game.
