The Falcons have had their fair share of injuries this season, but it’s hit a breaking point in Week 11. On Wednesday, the club released its practice report, and there’s a total of 16 players with varying practice designations.
Let’s begin from the top and work our way down.
London and Dalman were full participants last week, but only the former played against the Saints. Dalman has had his 21-day practice window opened but has yet to make his return. In his absence, Ryan Nuezil has performed more than admirably.
Bertrand and Carter have been injured for weeks now, but the latter had his 21-day practice window open on Wednesday. Hughes, Allgeier, and Andersen all suffered their respective injuries on Sunday, though they are expected to be available in Denver.
Smith-Williams, Woerner, and Graham all suffered injuries against the Saints but are much more serious than the rest. If I’m reading the tea leaves, Smith-Williams and Graham are likely headed for the injured reserve.
The last bit of that does have a silver lining. With Graham expected to miss significant time, it paves the way for Brandon Dorlus to make his much-anticipated regular season debut. I would advise Falcons fans to temper their expectations, though.
Dorlus has yet to even be active for a game this year, while the defensive front has dealt with injuries and struggles. In that same breath, the Falcons took the same approach with Ruke Orhorhoro, but the second-round pick actually had some productive snaps before an injury.
Still, keep expectations low for Dorlus, and there won’t be any great disappointment.
