FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons announced Wednesday that outside linebacker Lorenzo Carter has been designated to return from injured reserve.
Carter was placed on injured reserve on Saturday, Oct. 19, after he entered the league's concussion protocol following Atlanta's win against the Carolina Panthers in Week 6. The veteran linebacker was a mainstay in Atlanta's starting lineup prior to his injury, and it's expected that he will once again be a factor for the unit.
The Falcons have turned to Arnold Ebiketie and Demone Harris to help fill Carter's role in his absence. Ebiketie has been effective with his increased time on the field and is currently first among Atlanta's defensive line and edge players with an 8.7% pressure rate.
Carter's return will alleviate some of the depth concerns in the wake of the injuries sustained by defensive linemen Ta'Quon Graham and James Smith-Williams in Week 10.
Before going on injured reserve, Carter had 15 tackles, nine stops and two quarterback pressures. In his seven-year career, Carter has 21.5 sacks; he does not have a sack yet this season.
The Falcons also announced a pair of practice squad moves. Atlanta is signing wide receiver and kick returner Jakeem Grant to the practice squad and releasing linebacker Tyreek Maddox-Williams. Grant was previously with the Falcons during training camp.
