Sept 2 2025
The spotlight will be on new starters for the year and the possible return of an injured starter to action as the Falcons look forward to their opening day game against division rivals, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, this Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
As speculated, Elijah Wilkinson becomes the starter for the right tackle position previously held by an injured and out for the season Kaleb McGary. Jack Nelson will be his backup, replacing a temporarily out Storm Norton.
Darnell Mooney, who was injured during practices this summer and was the center of speculation as to whether the wide receiver would be back in time for the Sunday opener, is listed as a starter for Week 1. Casey Washington will be his backup.
Falcons Coach Raheem Morris said Monday that Mooney was “day-to-day.” He added that he felt good about Mooney’s progress as far as his health, but would determine if he will play by the end of the week.
Also notable are the starter debuts of Brandon Dorlus (DL, with Ruke Orhorhoro as backup) and Divine Deablo (ILB, with Josh Woods as backup).
The entire Falcons Week 1 depth chart is available here.
Image credit: Atlanta Falcons
Featured image by Brian Allen
