The Atlanta Falcons injury list continues to grow. Bad news continues hit the team once predicted to be playing for a Super Bowl come February. That goal is certainly still an option just two weeks into the season, but the road to get there just got a little bit steeper. Still recovering from the news that fullback Bradie Ewing and linebacker Kroy Biermann would be lost for the season, linebacker Sean Weatherspoon has just been placed on injured reserve with designation to return.
Losing Biermann was a huge hit to the Falcons' defense, but losing Weatherspoon is catastrophic. The linebacker will not be able to return until at least Week 11 after suffering a foot injury in Sunday's win against the St. Louis Rams. The loss will certainly be felt. In 2012, Weatherspoon tied a team high with 95 tackles. He is considered the voice of the defense and leader to the younger players.
The Falcons now have three roster spots open. There is no question; Atlanta will be signing a few free agents in the coming week, so stay updated. The issue is the talent remaining on the market. The Falcons need a linebacker and defensive end the most. Kyle Vanden Bosch and Richard Seymour are two options. They have still have something left in the tank, the issue is how they fit in position wise. Weatherspoon spends his entire time at linebacker while Biermann is a hybrid player. Atlanta needs someone that can move around and offer versatility. That might not be what either veteran can bring to the table.
For now, the Falcons have some options already on the roster while they take a look at the talent elsewhere. With Weatherspoon out, Joplo Bartu will continue as the outside linebacker. The rookie has shown a tremendous amount of talent and will be able to step up. Stephen Nicholas will get bumped into the starting lineup unless the Falcons sign someone capable of starting right away. Rookie Paul Worrilow will also be expected to step in and help right away with depth.
With Biermann, the Falcons will likely turn to Jonathan Massaquoi or Malliciah Goodman for help. Both young players are emerging talents on the roster. Massaquoi could start next to Osi Umenyiora and benefit from having a veteran alongside him. Goodman had a strong preseason while demonstrating the usual rookie mistakes. If he can become consistent, the Falcons could have something on their hands.
Things are looking bleak in Atlanta. These season-ending injuries were not factored into the Falcons' plan to reach the Super Bowl. The team is dropping fast from the power rankings. After starting 2013 1-1, they have a lot of challenges in front of them if the postseason will become a reality this season.
