The Atlanta Falcons will be without starting inside linebacker Divine Deablo for an extended period after he suffered a forearm fracture during last Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers. Deablo has been a key part of the Falcons’ defense, known for his versatility and athleticism.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich commented on Deablo’s unique skill set, noting his background as a college safety and his physical attributes. Head coach Raheem Morris referred to Deablo as an “avatar” because of his wingspan. Both coaches acknowledged that replacing him would not be simple.
Ulbrich explained that the team would use a committee approach to fill the gap left by Deablo. “As we all know, he’s very unique in the fact that he is — from an athletic profile standpoint — very DB-ish,” Ulbrich said. “From a size standpoint, he’s very linebacker. So, we’re going to replace him with some DBs at times and we’ll replace him with some linebackers at times.”
JD Bertrand took most of the snaps at linebacker following Deablo’s injury against San Francisco. Ulbrich praised Bertrand’s intelligence and understanding of the defensive scheme but suggested other players could also step into the role. “He’s going to get a great opportunity to play some more,” Ulbrich said of Bertrand. “There’s some other guys, too, that are going to step in and do some of what Divine does.”
Potential replacements include Josh Woods, DeMarcco Hellams, Jordan Fuller—who recently returned from injured reserve—and DeAngelo Malone, who has trained at both inside and outside linebacker positions this season. Malone was involved late in the Bills game earlier this year and recorded an interception.
Woods is recognized for his effort and toughness despite lacking some of Deablo’s speed or length. Ulbrich previously described Woods as “all heart.” Hellams may also see time closer to the line of scrimmage if additional coverage is needed against tight ends, possibly allowing Atlanta to deploy three-safety sets.
Jalon Walker could become part of this rotation once he recovers from a groin injury; he played frequently at middle linebacker during his college career under Kirby Smart at Georgia.
Ulbrich emphasized that it will require contributions from several players to collectively match what Deablo brings to the defense until he returns: “Combination of all those guys, absolutely,” Ulbrich said. “We’re going to give everybody a little bit of Divine’s role. There is a competitive element this week to see who does the best and deserves the opportunity.”
