Falcons enter a bye at 2-2 after a 34-27 win over Washington, with reinforcements from IR to shape the second half. The window to activate Troy Andersen, Bralen Trice, Ta'Quon Graham, and Storm Norton gives Atlanta options to bolster linebacker speed, edge presence, and interior depth, while A.J. Terrell and Darnell Mooney look to return and restore impact on defense and the receiver corps. A tough Monday-night test vs. Buffalo looms, demanding careful rotation management as depth pieces are integrated.

With the Bills at 4-0 visiting Atlanta, the bye provides time to reallocate snaps and reintroduce key players. The Falcons will lean on depth to weather the Bills’ efficient attack, while Ulbrich’s unit can experiment with personnel in pass-rush and run-stopping roles. The upcoming schedule emphasizes balancing rest with incremental increases in role clarity for the IR returnees and the returning starters.

The Atlanta Falcons have faced challenges during the 2025 NFL free agency period, resulting in the departure of several players due to salary cap restrictions. One significant move includes linebacker Nate Landman, who has signed a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Rams. Landman, who initially joined the Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2022, has been a key contributor over three seasons, with his standout performance in 2023 comprising 110 tackles, two sacks, and one interception.

The Falcons opted not to tender Landman a contract for $3.26 million, signalling the beginning of his journey with the Rams' defense. His arrival in Los Angeles presents him with a valuable opportunity to further prove his skills, particularly following the injury-related absence of Troy Andersen. In response to Landman's exit, the Falcons have signed veteran linebacker Divine Deablo as they aim to maintain a competitive defensive lineup for the upcoming season.

The Atlanta Falcons are poised for a crucial matchup against the Washington Commanders, with both teams having significant stakes in the game. The Falcons, currently holding an 8-7 record, recently made waves by benching veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. This decision paid off as Penix Jr. led the team to victory over the New York Giants, marking their second consecutive win. Despite these victories coming against lower-ranked teams, the Falcons are now at the top of the NFC South, but their position is precarious with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers closely behind.

On the other side, the Commanders, led by standout quarterback Jayden Daniels, are looking to capitalize on their momentum. Daniels delivered an impressive performance against the Philadelphia Eagles, throwing five touchdown passes and overcoming a 13-point deficit. A win against the Falcons would mark the most successful season for the Commanders since 1991. The pressure is mounting on both teams, particularly on Penix Jr. and the Falcons, as any slip-ups in their final games could jeopardize their playoff aspirations.

As the game approaches, analysts are weighing in on potential betting strategies. NBC Sports analyst Brad Thomas suggests that bettors consider Daniels to throw over 1.5 touchdown passes, citing his recent form and the Falcons' struggling pass defense. The Falcons have managed to cover the spread in all their matchups against NFC East teams this season, while the Commanders have found success against NFC South opponents. With injuries impacting both rosters, the outcome of this game remains uncertain, making it a must-watch for fans and bettors alike.

The Atlanta Falcons remain in contention for the NFC South title despite a lackluster performance from quarterback Kirk Cousins, who threw for only 112 yards in a narrow 15-9 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.

With a record of 7-7, the Falcons are just one game behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, holding the tiebreaker advantage. Coach Raheem Morris expressed confidence in the team's position, while Cousins reflected on his struggles, including a league-leading 16 interceptions this season.

Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has yet to see significant playing time, as Morris emphasizes a cautious approach to his development. The Falcons leaned heavily on their running game, with Bijan Robinson achieving a career-high 125 rushing yards.