Falcons elevate Austin Larkin from practice squad after Takkarist McKinley ruled questionable

Takkarist McKinley left the field against the Carolina Panthers after a large offensive lineman fell on him during a sack. He came up heavily favoring his shoulder, suggesting he suffered a serious injury. He returned to the game but is still not practicing in full.

McKinley put in a limited practice and was ruled questionable for Sunday’s game. The Falcons signed Austin Larkin to the practice squad late in the week, suggesting there was concern McKinley was in danger of missing the game. Larkin was moved to the active roster on Saturday afternoon.

The Falcons did the same thing when Matt Bosher first suffered his groin injury. Larkin was secured via the practice squad, and likely after checking on McKinley on Saturday, decided to activate Larkin from the practice squad.

It is definitely bad news for McKinley, who is finally turning the corner after a forgettable 2019 season. With other defensive ends like John Cominsky and Adrian Clayborn nicked up, Larkin could see plenty of snaps against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers if McKinley cannot suit up.