Atlanta Falcons' early season test just got a lot easier following suspension of a starting playmaker

Addison was the 23rd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by Minnesota. He has recorded 133 receptions for 1,786 yards and 19 touchdowns throughout his first two seasons in the league, and is a starter opposite No. 1 WR Justin Jefferson.

Addison has played two games against Atlanta. In 2023 he caught five passes for 52 yards in a 31-28 win over the Falcons. In 2024 he had arguably the best game of his career against Atlanta, racking up eight catches for 133 yards and three touchdowns in a 42-21 blowout victory for the Vikings.

Addison was arrested in July of 2024 for a DUI after he was found asleep in the driver’s seat of his car in California. He resolved the citation last month by pleading no contest to a “wet reckless” charge, a plea bargain that amounts to a misdemeanor indicating the involvement of alcohol or drugs.

Make no mistake, Minnesota will still pose a tough threat to the Falcons even without Addison. The Vikings have one of the best defenses in the league, and have plenty of offensive playmakers such as Jefferson, tight end T.J. Hockenson, and running back Aaron Jones.

The Falcons kick off the season with a home matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before traveling to Minnesota to face the Vikings in Week 2, then will stay on the road and take on the Carolina Panthers in Week 3. That's a quick two games against NFC South opponents, making it critical for Atlanta to get off to a good start.