FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- The early week injury focus centered around those returning from previous ailments and personal issues. The Falcons got good news on those fronts, with Calvin Ridley, Russell Gage, Erik Harris and Marlon Davidson returning to work without the need to be listed on the Falcons' Wednesday participation report.
There were, however, some unexpected names showing up there. Edge rusher Dante Fowler was included. He did not participate due to a knee injury. Safety Jaylinn Hawkins was out with an illness.
RECENT CONTENT:
The prospect of playing Miami on Sunday without Fowler should not be appealing to Falcons fans. He's the team's best edge rusher by far, essentially a three-down player who has functioned well against the run and pass. Fowler played just 25 defensive snaps in the previous game against the Jets, a low sum relative to his standard activity level.
Options behind him aren't as fearsome should the Falcons have to exercise them if Fowler's unable to go.
Cornerback Avery Williams was limited with the same hamstring strain suffered just before the Jets game in London. Head coach Arthur Smith said the Falcons will let the week play out before making a decision on his status.
Check out the full injury report, right here: https://www.atlantafalcons.com/team/injury-report/
Falcons Final Whistle | A Postgame Podcast
Break down the hottest topics surrounding the Atlanta Falcons and how they can impact the team's success with Falcons Insiders Will McFadden, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack. Like and subscribe to join us for the lively debate on Falcons Final Whistle.
Welcome to Falcons Final Whistle – an Atlanta Falcons football postgame podcast during the season that shifts gears in the offseason to answer a pressing question about the team's future each week through free agency, the NFL Draft and the offseason program.