Falcons LB Troy Andersen to Return vs. Saints?

Originally posted on FanNation Falcon Report
By Jonathan Alfano | Last updated 1/3/24

The Atlanta Falcons are getting a much-appreciated boost on defense as they designated linebacker Troy Andersen to return from injured reserve, the team announced Wednesday.

A 2022 second-round pick, Andersen has been out since Sept. 24, when he suffered a suffered a shoulder/pectoral injury in Atlanta's loss to the Detroit Lions. It was unclear if Andersen would play again this season, but it seems like he will be back at the end.

Of course, the 21-day window to return doesn't mean much with the Falcons' regular-season finale against the New Orleans Saints just a few days away. However, the Falcons can extend their season with a win and a Tampa Bay Buccaneers loss on Sunday, which would result in them making the playoffs as the NFC South champion.

Andersen played all 17 games in his rookie season, starting five of them. The Montana State product had an impressive rookie campaign given his draft status, recording 69 total tackles, three tackles for loss, one pass defended and a forced fumble.

Before he went down this season, Andersen had 19 total tackles with one tackle for loss.

While Andersen has been out, fellow second-year linebacker Nathan Landman has filled his void with 100 total tackles in 15 games. Kaden Elliss, who is in his first year with the Falcons after defecting from the Saints, has also solidified the middle of the defense with 119 total tackles and four sacks.

This article first appeared on FanNation Falcon Report and was syndicated with permission.

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