NW Atlanta News

Inside linebacker Nate Landman is set to return from injured reserve, according to an announcement made by the Atlanta Falcons on Monday. This decision comes as the team gears up for their Week 6 matchup against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.

Landman had been placed on injured reserve on September 16 due to injuries in his quad and calf. The quad issue had been persistent since mid-August, while the calf injury was noted in the team's Week 2 reports, leading to Landman being ruled out before their victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.

With Landman's 21-day practice window now open, he faces a deadline to be activated to the 53-man roster within three weeks or be moved to season-ending injury reserve. There is also a possibility that he could be released before this period ends.

Despite his quad injury, Landman participated in the Falcons' Week 1 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, playing 54% of defensive snaps and making seven tackles. Landman joined the Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2022 and gained recognition in 2023 when he replaced Troy Andersen after Andersen went on injured reserve. Last season, Landman made significant contributions with 110 tackles, seven for loss, two sacks, an interception, three pass breakups, and three forced fumbles over 14 starts and 16 appearances.

His return is expected to provide crucial depth to the Falcons' inside linebacker lineup. Besides Landman's absence due to injury, Troy Andersen was also unavailable during last Thursday's Week 5 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers because of a knee injury. Rookie JD Bertrand has stepped up in their absence, transitioning from special teams duties to increased defensive responsibilities over the past three games. In their recent game against Tampa Bay, Bertrand played 72% of defensive snaps compared to just 25% on special teams.

In related news, tight end Armani Rogers has been signed by the Falcons to their practice squad as announced on Monday.