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It doesn’t sound like Troy Andersen is returning this season

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Chase Irle | Last updated Nov 4, 2025 8:54 AM ET

Nobody has come out of the Falcons’ three-game skid looking better than Divine Deablo, who left Atlanta’s Week 7 matchup against the 49ers after suffering a broken forearm and now faces the possibility of missing the remainder of the season.

Before Deablo’s injury, the Falcons defense ranked inside the top 10 in nearly every meaningful category. Since then, there hasn’t been much to like. Atlanta’s run defense has turned into Swiss cheese, and opposing offenses have repeatedly targeted JD Bertrand — Deablo’s replacement — in the passing game. That was on full display during New England’s game-clinching first down on Sunday.

Some caught this live but the Falcons subbed JD Bertrand on for this play, which seemed like an obvious passing situation. Not sure what the rationale was for bringing him in on the crucial play of the drive. Plays scared and doesn't trust his eyes. This is basic man coverage. pic.twitter.com/822Hi4YeVh

— Tre’Shon (@tre3shon) November 3, 2025

It’s difficult to tell whether Deablo was playing like one of the best linebackers in football or if Bertrand simply doesn’t belong on an NFL roster, but the drop-off has been staggering. The truth likely lies somewhere in between. Regardless, Deablo isn’t returning anytime soon, and Jeff Ulbrich needs to find answers — fast.

One potential solution could be the return of Troy Andersen. When healthy, the former second-round pick has been a starting-caliber linebacker, but injuries have derailed his career. He’s played just nine games over the last three seasons and has yet to suit up this year due to a lingering knee injury from 2024.

That’s hardly encouraging, and neither were Raheem Morris’ comments when asked about Andersen’s status for the rest of the season. “You never want to rule it out, but we’ll have to wait and see,” Morris said.

It’s a brutal blow for the Falcons, who desperately need Andersen’s athleticism with Deablo sidelined, but it’s an even tougher reality for Andersen himself. Once viewed as a potential cornerstone piece of the defense, his inability to stay healthy may ultimately cost him his NFL future as he’s set to become a free agent at season’s end.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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