ATL Standard

The Atlanta Falcons are set to host the Carolina Panthers in their regular season finale this Sunday. As the teams prepare for their Week 18 matchup, several key players' injuries could impact the game.

For the Falcons, wide receiver Darnell Mooney is dealing with a shoulder injury and is listed as questionable. Mooney's potential absence is significant due to his role in the offense and his proximity to surpassing 1,000 receiving yards for the season. Rookies JD Bertrand and Brandon Dorlus also have questionable statuses, with Bertrand facing an eye injury.

The Panthers will be without cornerback Jaycee Horn due to a hip injury. Safety Lonnie Johnson has been ruled out with a shoulder/neck issue. The offensive line may see changes if guard Robert Hunt and tackle Taylor Moton cannot play, both of whom are listed as questionable. Additionally, receiver Xavier Legette's participation remains uncertain due to hip/wrist injuries.

Quarterbacks on both sides have changed since these teams last met in Week 6. Bryce Young returns as Carolina's starter after improving his performance following an early-season benching. For Atlanta, Michael Penix Jr. will make his third start.

Falcons running back Bijan Robinson is nearing record-setting achievements this season. With over 1,700 yards from scrimmage already amassed, he aims to match Hall of Famers Edgerrin James and LaDainian Tomlinson by achieving at least 50 scrimmage yards in consecutive games during his first two NFL seasons.

Postseason possibilities remain slim for Atlanta; they require a victory against Carolina coupled with a Tampa Bay Buccaneers loss to the New Orleans Saints to secure an NFC South title and playoff berth.

Defensive standout A.J. Terrell has quietly excelled throughout 2024 but remains underappreciated nationally despite strong performances such as limiting Washington's Terry McLaurin last week.