Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Divine Deablo is making progress toward a return to the active roster as the team prepares for its upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints. Head coach Raheem Morris indicated optimism earlier in the week about Deablo’s recovery, stating that he expects to see him back on the field soon. The Falcons opened Deablo’s 21-day window to return from injured reserve on Wednesday.
“I expect to see him,” Morris said of Deablo. “I don’t want to act like I’m going to activate him and not see him. I hope we’re going to see him unless something otherwise says something.”
Deablo participated in practice with limitations on Wednesday but was a full participant by Thursday. He attributed his limited status more to a gradual ramp-up by the team rather than any lingering physical issues from his previously fractured forearm, which he continues to protect with a cast during practice.
“Honestly, I need to run at full speed,” Deablo said Wednesday when asked what he needs before returning for Sunday’s game in New Orleans. “I need to make sure my endurance is right, make sure my mind is right as well, make sure I know my assignments and make sure I can do everything at the best level possible. Then, I’ll be ready.”
The Falcons’ latest injury report lists several players who were able to fully participate in Thursday’s practice: Divine Deablo (forearm), Dee Alford (concussion), Mike Hughes (neck), Xavier Watts (illness), Malik Verdon (shoulder), and Brandon Dorlus (oblique). Players with limited participation included Leonard Floyd (hamstring), Chris Lindstrom (foot), and Matthew Bergeron (ankle). Drake London (knee), Josh Woods (hamstring), and Zach Harrison (knee) did not participate.
