Hopes of an Atlanta Falcons Week 9 upset were just bolstered with the news that both Drake London and Michael Penix Jr. were able to return to practice. Despite it being in a limited capacity, seeing both names make this type of progress is huge for the Falcons ahead of a surprisingly daunting matchup against the New England Patriots. New England has become one of the surprise contenders in the AFC, playing a well-balanced game that demands both London and Penix back in the lineup if the franchise has any hope of correcting the course of the season.
Last week's disheartening loss illustrated just how important Penix has become to the Atlanta offense. Even with the previous struggles with the quarterback in the lineup, the Falcons never looked as inept as they did against the Dolphins. It was a complete and utter beatdown that illustrated the importance of Atlanta's stars. Furthering the good news is the return of rookie defender Jalon Walker, who appears on track to play this week. His presence should boost the lineup, making it clear that the next two weeks are a last stand for the 2025 season.
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Falling behind further in the wildcard and divisional races, it is hard to see a path back to contention. Atlanta is scheduled to play two of the league's surprise contenders in the Patriots and Colts. Seeing how Penix performs under pressure will be very telling of how this season will end. The Falcons have the talent to go on a surprise run, and Jeff Ulbrich's defense has already proven itself capable of doing the heavy lifting if given any support.
The only times the unit was unable to maintain this energy came against the Dolphins and Panthers, when the offense was doing nothing but making life harder for the more capable unit. If offensive coordinator Zac Robinson can find answers in the next weeks of the season, the Falcons still have a chance to make a run.
Getting back Walker, Penix, and London this week appears very likely and is necessary to have a chance at pulling off the upset. The Patriots have been playing incredibly well on both sides of the ball and are well-coached by Mike Vrabel. Now is the time for Raheem Morris and Penix both to make statements if this isn't the lost season it appears to be.
At least it appears that opportunity will now be in place after the trio of impact players missed Week 9. Showing just how valued each piece has been and the boost they are expected to provide in an important road matchup.