The Atlanta Falcons faced off against the Miami Dolphins Friday for their first preseason game at Hard Rock Stadium and lost 13-20. Unfortunately, the Falcons were decimated with injuries as many players exited the game, including their rookie.
The Atlanta Falcons Day 2 draft pick exited the game with an injury
Bralen Trice injured his knee with 26 seconds remaining in the second quarter. The medical staff carted him off the field. Raheem Morris gave a brief injury update after the game.
“We had the two injuries in the game, that I know about right now, that felt bad,” Falcons coach Raheem Morris said. “I’ll have a better feel tomorrow when the doctor has a chance to see those guys, but that would be Trice and Hellams. Both being taken off on the cart. We’ll get a better feel and know what’s going on (Saturday).”
The worst news happened.
Bralen Trice suffered a significant knee injury
According to Ian Rapoport, Trice suffered an ACL tear. The Falcons placed him on the reserve/injured list, and he will miss the entire rookie season.
The #Falcons placed third-round outside linebacker Bralen Trice on Injured Reserve after he tore his ACL in their preseason game, sources say. He had impressed early on, running with the 1s. Now, the focus shifts to 2025.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 11, 2024
NFL fans react to the news
Ugh that stinks. Hope he has a healthy and speedy recovery.
— Bryan (@BGauvin23) August 11, 2024
Bralen Trice was supposed to be the Falcons dart throw for a legit pass rusher.
Dirty Birds defense will be anemic in the pass rush again. Miss the days of John Abraham. Yes, it has been that long since Atlanta had a good pass rusher for a decent period of time.
— Patrick MacCoon (@PMacCoon) August 11, 2024
Falcons gotta hit the free agent edge market.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) August 11, 2024
Falcons already had the worst pass rush in the league. It just got worse.
— Austin (@AustinPlanet) August 11, 2024
Who will replace the injured rookie?
The Falcons starting EDGE rushers will likely be Arnold Ebiketie and Lorenzo Carter. Their next man up, who’s role should increase, is James Smith-Williams. Smith-Williams signed with the Falcons after spending the first four years with the Commanders.
Other players whose roles will increase or compete for a roster spot include Bradlee Anae, DeAngelo Malone, and Demone Harris.
