Falcons injury report: 4 starters would have missed practice today

We’re in the final day of 2020, and we’re also days away from the Atlanta Falcons final game this season. If you’re confused by the title, let me explain. Due to a positive COVID-19 test, the Falcons did not practice on Thursday, but the team has provided an estimated injury report ahead of Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Thursday’s official practice report:

FULL PARTICIPATION

• DE Steven Means (hand)
• C Matt Hennessy (knee)

LIMITED PARTICIPATION

• RB Ito Smith (rib)
• DE John Cominsky (shoulder)
• LB Foye Oluokun (ankle)
• G James Carpenter (groin)
• DT Marlon Davidson (knee)
• TE Luke Stocker (elbow)

NO PARTICIPATION

• WR Julio Jones (hamstring)
• CB Darqueze Dennard (quad)
• WR Brandon Powell (foot)
• DE Charles Harris (personal matter)

If you’re thinking that this report looks identical to Wednesday’s practice report, you’re not entirely wrong. The one change is that center Alex Mack, who miss last week’s game due to a concussion and was limited on Wednesday, has been removed. Mack was added to the team’s reserve/COVID-19 list on Thursday morning which is not a great sign for his availability for Sunday’s season finale.

Many expect this to be Mack’s final season in Atlanta, so it’s a terrible way to see him go out. With Mack most likely out on Sunday, expect to again see rookie Matt Hennessy who will have another opportunity to prove he’s the team’s future at the center position. Many will tell you that he didn’t have a phenomenal game last week against the Kansas City Chiefs, but you must keep in mind that it was his first start at his true position, and the Chiefs have a pretty experienced defensive front. I’m excited to see him get another shot at it.

Have a safe and Happy New Year, everyone!