Falcons roster: Three players face obstacles for Madrid game
The Atlanta Falcons have designated linebacker James Pearce Jr. as questionable, while two other key contributors are expected to sit out Sunday's match against the Cincinnati Bengals.
By Austin Reed ·
Outside linebacker James Pearce Jr. is officially listed as questionable to play in the Atlanta Falcons' Sunday contest against the Cincinnati Bengals. Pearce suffered a back injury during Friday practice, limiting his activity ahead of the matchup scheduled for 9:30 a.m. EST at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. This setback occurs as Pearce prepares to return to the field for the first time since completing an eight-game suspension.
The Falcons also confirmed that running back Brian Robinson Jr. will miss his third consecutive game due to a hamstring injury. The team has elevated Khalil Herbert from the practice squad to the active roster for the past two weeks to manage this absence. Coaches expect to repeat this formula for the upcoming game in Spain, keeping Herbert on the active list while Robinson continues his recovery.
Receiver Zachariah Branch, who was ruled out earlier in the week, remains on the inactive list for the bout. The team announced these updates on Friday afternoon, providing a clearer picture of the personnel available for the international contest. The Falcons will look to fill their roster with healthy bodies to face the Bengals.
Head coach Kirk Cousins noted that Pearce spent several hours in the team's facilities on Friday discussing the injury. "We'll see how he feels," Cousins said. "He's got a back injury, so we're going to be careful." The coaching staff indicated that Pearce is capable of playing, but they will monitor his status closely in the coming days to determine if he can return to full availability.
Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia stated that Pearce practiced in a limited capacity on Friday. "He's got a back injury, so we're going to be careful," Patricia said. "We'll see how he feels." The staff emphasized that Pearce is capable of playing, but they will monitor his status closely in the coming days to determine if he can return to full availability.
The Falcons will face the Bengals in a rare NFL game played outside the United States. The contest takes place at the famous soccer venue in Madrid, offering a unique backdrop for the football match. Both teams are managing their rosters with the short week in mind, balancing rest with preparation for the travel and the game itself.
The Falcons have had to adjust their game plan following the injury to Pearce. The team will rely on other defensive linemen to compensate for any potential absence. The outcome of Pearce's status will be determined in the final practice session before the game.
