Falcons tight end Austin Hooper, the team’s leading receiver with 56 catches, and running back Devonta Freeman, the team’s leading rusher with 371 yards, were ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Panthers at 1 p.m. in Charlotte.
Also, strong safety Kemal Ishmael (concussion) will not play.
Hooper suffered an MCL strain and could miss up to four games, according to NFL media. Running back Devonta Freeman suffered a foot sprain.
Hooper will be replaced in the lineup by Luke Stocker and Jaeden Graham.
Freeman will be replaced in the lineup by Brian Hill and rookie Qadree Ollison, who does not have an NFL carry.
Ishmael will be replaced in the lineup by Jamal Carter.
Cornerback Desmond Trufant (turf toe) will play after missing the past four games.
---
Subscribe to "The Bow Tie Chronicles" podcast with the AJC's D. Orlando Ledbetter on iTunes or on the new AJC sports podcasts page.
About the Author
