Falcons facing a clouded injury picture heading into Week 14 with another top star now ruled out

The Atlanta Falcons are grappling with a complex injury situation as they approach Week 14, now facing the absence of another key player. Throughout the 2023 season, the Falcons have encountered opponents dealing with significant injuries, such as the Minnesota Vikings without Kirk Cousins and the Green Bay Packers missing key offensive weapons. While the Falcons haven’t been immune to injuries, losing crucial players like Grady Jarrett, linebacker Troy Andersen, and contributors like Mack Hollins and Avery Williams, they hadn’t faced a surge of injuries until recently.

In their latest game at MetLife Stadium, played under wet conditions, the Falcons suffered multiple blows, losing starting cornerbacks A.J. Terrell and Jeff Okudah, starting linebacker Nate Landman, and starting right tackle Kaleb McGary in a single afternoon. Additionally, defensive lineman David Onyemata and center Drew Dalman are dealing with injuries, and players like Hollins and Mike Hughes were absent from Sunday’s game, with uncertain returns. This extensive list includes key starters, challenging Atlanta’s depth, particularly on defense.

While the Jets’ offense couldn’t fully exploit the absence of Terrell and Landman, the upcoming divisional matchup against the Buccaneers poses a tougher challenge for Atlanta. With several starters injured, Clark Phillips may face difficult matchups against Mike Evans, and Andre Smith Jr. is set to step in for an entire game. The Buccaneers’ defensive line will test Storm Norton, who has performed well in brief stints filling in for McGary but has yet to do so for an entire game.

While there is hope for Terrell’s return and potential commendable performances from spot starters against a formidable opponent, uncertainties loom. The injury reports in the coming days will provide insights into the severity of the situation, but it’s almost certain that the Falcons will face the Buccaneers on Sunday with a depleted roster. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for Atlanta to secure a three-game winning streak, marking a significant test for the team’s depth and resilience in the Arthur Smith era.