Significant Losses in the Falcons’ Defense
The Atlanta Falcons have confirmed two significant absences in their defensive roster. Defensive lineman Zach Harrison and rookie cornerback Billy Bowman Jr. have been placed on the injured reserve list, as announced by the team on Saturday.
Both players will be absent for at least four games.
Bowman, selected in the fourth round of the draft, suffered an Achilles tendon injury on Friday during a practice, according to head coach Raheem Morris. Bowman was seen with a boot and crutches in the locker room that same afternoon.
Harrison has been dealing with a knee injury for several weeks. He missed weeks 8 and 9 due to this injury, but returned in week 10. However, Harrison was absent again last week and will now be out for a longer period.
Harrison, in his third year as a professional, is having an outstanding season. He has 4.5 sacks, tied for the team lead with Brandon Dorlus, and two forced fumbles. Bowman, for his part, won the starting position at ‘nickel back’ from training camp, and has started in six games, with one interception, 1.5 sacks, and one forced fumble.
The Falcons (3-7) activated linebacker Divine Deablo, another key defender, from the injured reserve on Saturday. Deablo returns after a fractured forearm. Rookie cornerback Cobee Bryant, undrafted, was added to the active roster.
Safety Jammie Robinson and wide receiver Dylan Drummond were elevated for the Falcons’ game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.
