Falcons’ breakout performance against Saints ended with injury

The Falcons didn’t have much success in the draft under Terry Fontenot, especially with Atlanta’s most valuable draft picks.

Kyle Pitts racks up arrest claims; Tyler Allgeier He is a more efficient runner Bijan RobinsonAnd Arnold Ebiketie I still can’t beat it somehow Lorenzo Carter is out for a starting role. Richie GrantHe plays a minimal role on defense in the final year of his rookie contract.

Ruke Orhorhoro did not play actively in a single match this season. Desmond Ridder was exchanged in the meantime DeAngelo Malone nothing more than a special team participant. First-, second- and third-round picks were seemingly wasted, but a highly drafted player had a breakthrough performance on Sunday.

When the Falcons beat the Saints, Troy Andersen He recorded 10 tackles, one for loss, one pass defensed and one pick-six. derek carr Pass by Matthew Judon. Despite some early difficulties, Andersen plays with a newfound confidence.

Getting Troy Andersen going is crucial for the defense to reach its full potential. Once Nate Landman returns from injury, this will be possible Kaden Elliss Taking on a more versatile role, especially rushing the passer, in a way the Falcons haven’t been able to do.

Unfortunately, Andersen’s breakout performance ended with a knee injury. His status for Thursday’s prime-time game against the Buccaneers is in serious doubt. He already missed Monday’s practice and the Falcons signed the deal Rashaan Evans to the training team.

rookie JD Bertrand There may be other names available to replace Evans if Andersen is unable to leave, but it’s a tough situation for the former second-round draft pick to have to deal with an injury so soon after enjoying a breakthrough performance in his career.

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Photographer: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire