Falcons get major injury updates on Drake London, Darnell Mooney before Vikings game
The Atlanta Falcons, coming off a disappointing Week 1 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, were in need of some positive news heading into their Week 2 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. And that news came in the form of injury updates on two of their key wide receivers, Darnell Mooney and Drake London.
Darnell Mooney, a second-year player out of Tulane, had emerged as a reliable target for quarterback Matt Ryan during his rookie season. He displayed excellent speed and route-running ability, quickly earning the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates. However, Mooney suffered a minor ankle injury during the team’s Week 1 game, causing concern among fans and fantasy football owners alike.
But the latest reports out of Falcons’ headquarters suggest that Mooney’s injury is not as serious as initially feared. Head coach Arthur Smith confirmed that Mooney was able to participate in practice on a limited basis and is expected to be a game-time decision for Sunday’s game against the Vikings. This is certainly a positive development for the Falcons, as Mooney’s presence on the field provides a much-needed vertical threat for the offense.
Meanwhile, rookie wide receiver Drake London has been dealing with a lingering hamstring issue that has kept him sidelined for most of the preseason. London, a standout at USC, was selected by the Falcons in the second round of this year’s draft with the hope that he could provide a big-bodied target for Ryan in the red zone. However, his injury has delayed his NFL debut, leaving fans wondering when they will get to see the talented pass-catcher in action.
Fortunately, there is reason for optimism regarding London’s status for Week 2. The coaching staff has been monitoring his progress closely and is encouraged by his recent performances in practice. London has been able to participate in individual drills and is gradually increasing his workload as he continues to recover from the hamstring injury. While he may not be at full strength for Sunday’s game, there is a growing belief that he will be available to play a limited role against the Vikings.
For the Falcons, having both Mooney and London available for Sunday’s game would be a significant boost to an offense that struggled to find its rhythm in Week 1. Mooney’s speed and big-play ability can stretch the defense and open up opportunities for other receivers, while London’s size and physicality make him a valuable weapon in the red zone and on third downs. If both players are able to suit up, it could give the Falcons a much-needed spark on offense and help them bounce back from their season-opening loss.
Of course, injuries are always a concern in the NFL, and the Falcons will need to be cautious with both Mooney and London to ensure they do not aggravate their respective injuries. The team’s medical staff will continue to monitor their progress throughout the week and make a final determination on their availability for Sunday’s game. If either player is deemed unable to play, the Falcons will need to rely on their depth at the wide receiver position to step up and fill the void.
In the event that Mooney or London is unable to play, the Falcons have several options to turn to at wide receiver. Veteran Russell Gage has proven to be a reliable target for Ryan in the past and could see an increased role in the passing game. Olamide Zaccheaus, Christian Blake, and Tajae Sharpe are also capable of stepping up and contributing in the absence of Mooney and London. Additionally, tight end Kyle Pitts, the team’s first-round pick in this year’s draft, has the versatility to line up as a receiver and could be used more heavily in the passing game if needed.
Regardless of who takes the field on Sunday, the Falcons will need to execute better on offense if they hope to come away with a win against the Vikings. The team struggled to establish a consistent running game in Week 1, putting too much pressure on Ryan to carry the offense through the air. The offensive line will need to do a better job of protecting Ryan and creating running lanes for Mike Davis and Cordarrelle Patterson. The receivers will need to do a better job of getting open and making plays when given the opportunity. And Ryan will need to be more accurate and decisive with his throws, taking what the defense gives him and avoiding costly turnovers.
Defensively, the Falcons will need to tighten up after allowing 32 points to the Eagles in Week 1. The secondary, in particular, will need to do a better job of limiting explosive plays and forcing turnovers. Cornerbacks A.J. Terrell and Fabian Moreau will need to step up and shut down the Vikings’ passing attack, while safeties Erik Harris and Duron Harmon will need to provide help over the top. The front seven will need to generate more pressure on Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins, who has a tendency to make mistakes under duress.
Special teams will also play a crucial role in Sunday’s game, as field position and kicking accuracy can often be the difference in a close contest. Kicker Younghoe Koo will need to be reliable in the kicking game, while punter Dom Maggio will need to pin the Vikings deep in their own territory to give the defense a chance to make a stop. Return specialist Avery Williams will need to provide a spark in the return game, potentially flipping the field with a big return or setting up the offense with good field position.
In conclusion, the injury updates on Darnell Mooney and Drake London are certainly a positive development for the Atlanta Falcons as they prepare for their Week 2 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. Both players have the potential to make a significant impact on the game if they are able to play, providing much-needed firepower to an offense that struggled in Week 1. However, the Falcons will need to execute better in all three phases of the game if they hope to come away with a win on Sunday. By tightening up defensively, improving their offensive efficiency, and getting solid contributions from their special teams units, the Falcons can put themselves in a position to bounce back from their season-opening loss and get their 2021 campaign back on track.
Source: Sporting News
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