Falcons will get Mohamed Sanu, Courtney Upshaw back in practice today

I think we all need some good news this week. Let’s start with this: The Falcons will have Courtney Upshaw and Mohamed Sanu on the practice field today, and there’s at least a chance one or both will suit up against the New England Patriots on Sunday night.

I did not think I’d be quite this excited to get these two guys back, but their absences have helped to highlight their value in unexpected ways. The offense has faltered for many reasons, but Sanu’s reliability and ability to work his way open on shorter routes helped keep the offense humming, and the team has struggled to make anyone else work as a #2 with him out. Upshaw, meanwhile, is a massive upgrade as a run defender over the likes of Joe Vellano and Taniela Tupou, who have been pressed into action thanks to injuries.

Sanu had two grabs for 25 yards in the Super Bowl against the Patriots but will almost certainly be more productive if he plays this Sunday, given the struggles of this New England defense. Upshaw sacked Tom Brady the last time these two teams played, and I certainly hope he’ll be able to do that again.

Stay tuned for Friday’s injury report, which should give us a better idea of who is going to play. Getting Sanu and Upshaw back would be huge.