After getting Tuesday off, the Atlanta Falcons returned to the practice field on Wednesday but weren’t at full strength. Safety DeMarcco Hellams, who suffered an ankle injury during Friday’s preseason loss to the Miami Dolphins, was one of three players absent.
Fellow safety Dane Cruikshank and defensive lineman Zach Harrison were also missing from Wednesday’s practice. Rookie running back Jace McClellan, who led the team in rushing yards against the Dolphins, continues to wear the yellow non-contact jersey, per to team reporter Terrin Waack:
Aug. 15: Missing from today’s Falcons practice are defensive lineman Zach Harrison, safeties DeMarcco Hellams and Dane Cruikshank.
Running back Jase McClellan remains in a yellow non-contact jersey.
— Terrin Waack (@TerrinWaack) August 14, 2024
The Falcons made a handful of roster moves over the past week as injuries have started piling up. First, wide receiver Rondale Moore went down during joint practices in Miami. Three more players went down in Friday’s preseason opener.
Rookie linebacker Bralen Trice, cornerback Harrison Hand and safety DeMarcco Hellams all appeared to suffer serious injuries. While Trice and Harrison were placed on the injured reserve list, Hellams remains on the active roster.
Atlanta worked out safety Justin Simmons on Tuesday but left without a contract. The team did sign former Pro Bowl receiver Jakeem Grant along with defensive backs William Hooper and Josh Thompson.
