Falcons Week 13 rookie report: Rest, but for how long?

The Atlanta Falcons continue to play very small roles in their 2024 rookie class, which has been the case for most of the year. That could change in the near future.

That’s because given Kirk Cousins’ struggles, it’s at least possible that Michael Penix will be added to the lineup. Ruke Orhorhoro is close to returning from injured reserve, JD Bertrand should be back in action on special teams soon, and Brandon Dorlus has played well enough to carve out a consistent role.

Here’s your rookie report for Week 13.

QB Michael Penix

The rookie quarterback hasn’t taken over the starting job yet, but he’s starting it for the first time since the Week 1 debacle feel as if he would do it at some point. Kirk Cousins ​​had major problems; Penix has declared himself ready for action, supporting Cousins ​​​​with class. The hope is that Cousins ​​gets back on track and we don’t see Penix until 2025, because that would be good news for the 2024 season, but doesn’t rule it out. He did not play in Week 13.

DL Ruke Orhorhoro

The Falcons have opened Orhorhoro’s practice window to injured reserve, opening the door for him to return to the field as early as this week. Ruke had been out for five weeks after some promising performances and his return will further bolster an improving defensive line.

OLB Bralen Trice

We still miss him, but Lorenzo Carter and Arnold Ebiketie are playing well this week, which means I’m not mourning what might have been quite a difficult week. We will see Trice in 2025.

DL Brandon Dorlus

Ten snaps for Dorlus on Sunday, with a solid if quiet day that included a single tackle. What’s more interesting is that Dorlus moved around a bit, playing mostly tight end and a few snaps in the B gap after spending most of his time inside in Week 11. He might take a backseat when Ruke returns this week, but there’s hope here.

LB JD Bertrand

There’s no Bertrand this week, but I’ll remain interested to see what role he plays when he returns to action. He’s a key cog on special teams, but whether he can steal some snaps from Nate Landman and Troy Andersen on defense remains to be seen.

RB Jase McClellan

No McClellan this week either as he was once again inactive. There will be no greater role in 2024 than the duty to clean up.

WR Casey Washington

Like last week, special teams are back in action for Washington. The Falcons play with a very tight group of three top receivers and only occasionally mix in KhaDarel Hodge, leaving Washington with little room to contribute. Maybe in 2025.