For the second straight season, the idea of pass rusher Bralen Trice is all Atlanta Falcons fans will have to go on. Two years in a row, the edge rusher has joined the IR before ever playing a regular-season snap. It is safe to say that early returns have been a bust for a piece that was expected to help breathe life back into Atlanta's struggling defensive front. It has been well-covered that the Falcons have remained at the bottom of the league when it comes to rushing the passer.
Trice was selected in 2024 to help solve this issue; however, the young edge rusher was injured before ever playing a snap and missed the entire season. It seems we are in for a similar script, though the defender could still return this season. It is a frustrating setback for a piece expected to play a role in Atlanta's rotational options.
Still, James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker are both incredibly exciting options who are getting ready to make their respective rookie debuts. Add in the addition of Leonard Floyd, and the unit should still see meaningful improvement. Giving Atlanta fans hope that perhaps this year will finally be different.
NEWS: The Falcons have placed edge rusher Bralen Trice on IR.
— Tori McElhaney (@tori_mcelhaney) August 28, 2025
Note Trice is placed on regular season IR, which means he can return this season, unlike Kaleb McGary who was placed on IR prior to initial roster cuts, and therefore, out for the year. https://t.co/9z2pe1NhH2
Falcons Draft Pick Continues Frustrating Career Path After Surprise Injury
Respected Falcons insider Tori McElhaney reported the injury update, noting that a return to the roster was still open. It was also pointed out that the loss of right tackle Kaleb McGary, whose injury was worse than once feared. This isn't helped by the fact that the right tackle is tasked with protecting the blindside of Michael Penix Jr., who was injury-prone throughout his college career.
No question, this isn't a great way to start the season as Atlanta turns its attention to getting ready for an important season opener. The Tampa Bay Bucs will play the Falcons for what will likely be the early division lead. With this in mind, not having Trice or McGary is a huge blow in what is an incredibly important early tone setter.
For Trice, it starts the clock as well when it comes to the patience the Falcons are willing to show. One injury can be shrugged off if the young defender is able to return and make an instant impact. However, this level of consistent time missed is a pattern you cannot afford to continue to ignore if Trice cannot return and finish the 2025 season strong.