The Atlanta Falcons are feeling frisky this year as they will be entering a new era. Michael Penix Jr. will now be undoubtedly the starting quarterback of the team. However, even if all things are pointing to the right direction, the NFL will throw you a curve ball and that has happened to this team right now.
Atlanta started its training camp without linebacker Troy Andersen. Not only is he not available right now, but he was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. He can be activated at any point this summer, but this is not the first time Andersen has dealt with injuries.
Last season, he played 7 games and in 2023, he missed 15 games due to a pectoral injury. When healthy, Andersen is a big presence but availability has hindered his career massively.
The Falcons have other top players in the linebacker room
While Atlanta will miss Andersen for as long as he is sidelined, the team is used to having a plan B. Divine Deablo and Kaden Elliss are also on the depth chart, so they are not empty-handed.
Troy Andersen (44) of the Atlanta Falcons reacts after an interception run back for a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 29, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Deablo just arrived on the Falcons after spending four years with the Raiders. Ellis is entering the seventh year of his NFL career and last season was his best. He started all 17 games and posted career-highs in interceptions, tackles and QB hits.
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There are other new faces on the Falcons defense
Deablo will be the new presence on the linebackers room, but the Falcons spent their efforts on defense. Defensive end Morgan Fox is joining from the Chargers. The team also added Leonard Floyd and first-round pick Jalon Walker.
The secondary also has many new faces on the block. Mike Ford comes from Cleveland to strengthen the team’s cornerbacks. Jordan Fuller spent time on Carolina but is now poised to be the starting free safety on the Falcons. The defense is looking for a new-look defense, a complete overhaul.
