Atlanta Falcons rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels is expected to return to practice Wednesday after being stretchered off the field during Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears. The latest update offers a positive sign after the frightening incident, although his availability for Atlanta’s next game remains uncertain.
According to Josh Kendall of The Athletic, Daniels will practice Wednesday, with the coaching staff planning to evaluate how he moves throughout the week. Kendall also reported that Daniels is not in concussion protocol.
The injury occurred during the third quarter of Atlanta’s 31-23 loss to Chicago. Daniels was taken off the field on a stretcher and transported to Grady Memorial Hospital for further evaluation before returning to the Falcons’ locker room later that evening.
Atlanta coach Kevin Stefanski provided an encouraging initial assessment Monday, saying the early news on Daniels was positive. The rookie’s return to practice would represent another step following the incident, but the team has not confirmed whether he will be available Sunday.
Daniels has made an impact during his first NFL season. The fourth-round draft pick from Oklahoma recorded 22 tackles and one sack through the Falcons’ first six games. He also registered seven tackles against Chicago before leaving with the injury.
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Daniels’ potential return matters for an Atlanta defense preparing to face one of the league’s unbeaten teams. The Falcons enter Week 7 with a 2-4 record, placing them second in the NFC South behind the 3-2 Carolina Panthers. The New Orleans Saints also sit at 2-4, while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 1-5.
Atlanta has struggled to build consistency, losing its last two games against the Baltimore Ravens and Bears. Getting Daniels back would give the coaching staff another option at linebacker, although his practice participation and medical progress will determine his status.
The Falcons host the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Oct. 25. San Francisco enters the matchup at 6-0, making the upcoming contest a difficult test for Atlanta. Daniels’ participation during the week should provide a clearer picture of whether he can return to the field.
