Falcons and Buccaneers clash week one with injury misfortune looming. DeMarcco Hellams and Jack Nelson didn’t practice for Atlanta, while Darnell Mooney is a game-time decision after a shoulder issue. Tampa Bay’s report is longer, featuring Vita Vea, Haason Reddick, Tristan Wirfs, Cade Otton and more, with Otton projected to be ready. These health updates shape early-season fantasy values, highlighting depth players and late status changes for Friday decisions.

Expect late-week shifts to influence DFS and streamer picks, especially in shallow leagues where every snap counts. The mix of rotational defenders and in-game risk around TB’s star protection could tilt targets and rushing lanes, making Friday’s injury report drop crucial for lineup optimization.

The Falcons released their first Week 1 injury report ahead of Sunday's game with Tampa Bay. Darnell Mooney was limited at Wednesday practice with a shoulder issue, Clark Phillips III was limited with a rib injury, and rookies Jack Nelson (calf) and DeMarcco Hellams (hamstring) did not participate. Michael Penix Jr. is listed as the expected starter in a showdown at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, a matchup Atlanta has owned in recent meetings with Tampa.

Mooney’s health status shapes Atlanta’s early-week expectations as the offense leans on London and Pitts behind a potentially lean target tree. Nelson and Hellams’ absences could test the Falcons’ depth on both lines and in the back end as Tampa Bay counters with its usual veteran-heavy unit. Updates on Thursday will be pivotal for Week 1 projections.