The Atlanta Falcons have shared their final injury report and game statuses ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated clash with the Minnesota Vikings. While the team is relatively healthy overall, a few key updates stand out as they prepare to face one of the NFC’s top teams.
Rookie backup running back Jase McClellan has been ruled out due to a lingering knee injury. The sixth-round draft pick out of Alabama has already missed last week’s 17-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. In his limited playing time this season, McClellan has appeared in just two games, carrying the ball 13 times for 32 yards in mop-up duty against the Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos. Although primarily a healthy scratch for much of his rookie campaign, the 22-year-old has contributed on special teams, logging eight snaps across his two active games.
Apart from McClellan, the Falcons’ injury situation is encouraging, with most key players expected to take the field. Cornerback Mike Hughes, who has been sidelined for the past two games due to a neck injury sustained on Nov. 10 against the New Orleans Saints, is officially listed as questionable. However, Hughes practiced fully throughout the week, signaling a strong possibility of his return. His presence would provide a significant boost to Atlanta’s secondary against Minnesota’s potent passing attack.
Another notable name on the injury report is rookie defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro. The Clemson product has been battling an ankle injury since late October and is currently on injured reserve. Orhorhoro began his 21-day practice window this week, participating in limited sessions on Wednesday and Thursday before practicing fully on Friday. Though his official status remains questionable, the rookie could be activated ahead of Sunday’s game, adding depth to Atlanta’s defensive line rotation.
Several other Falcons players who were limited or appeared on the injury report earlier in the week have been cleared to play. This includes wide receivers Drake London and Darnell Mooney, linebackers Troy Andersen and Nate Landman, and defensive lineman Zach Harrison. Their availability ensures Atlanta will have a near-full complement of starters and key contributors as they aim to pull off an upset against a formidable Vikings squad.
At 6-6, the Falcons are fighting to stay in playoff contention and will face a significant challenge on Sunday against the 10-2 Vikings. The game, scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, will test Atlanta’s resilience and ability to compete against one of the league’s top teams. With a mostly healthy roster and key players returning to action, the Falcons are positioned to put up a strong fight and potentially secure a critical win in their pursuit of postseason success.
