WATFORD, England – With the Falcons already hurting in the secondary after the loss of nickel back Isaiah Oliver, free safety Erik Harris (calf) and cornerback Avery Williams (hamstring) are doubtful for the game against the Jets at 9:30 a.m. EDT Sunday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
Rookie second-round pick Richie Grant, who has played mostly on special teams, and rookie fourth-round pick Darren Hall will play against the Jets. Both played extensively during the three exhibition games.
“You’re going to see Darren Hall and Richie Grant play. It’s not their first snap,” Falcons coach Arthur Smith told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Friday. “It wasn’t like they just got 10 snaps in the (exhibition) season so we can wear out Erik, Duron (Harmon) and Fabian (Moreau). We feel very comfortable because guys we knew were going to count on have banked reps.”
Second-year safety Jaylinn Hawkins took over for Harris when he left the Washington game.
Grant has not been playing because he’s had to learn the defense better, according to defensive coordinator Dean Pees. Grant has been spending time after practice working with Harmon.
Hall, who’s been the team’s sixth cornerback, has been inactive for three games. He played six snaps on special teams against the Giants on Sept. 26.
Also, nose tackle Mike Pennel is set to make his debut against the Jets.
“You’re going to see Mike play,” Smith said. “I’m excited to see Mike play.”
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Falcons’ 2021 schedule features trip to London, January trip to Buffalo
Atlanta Falcons Schedule
Washington FT 34, Falcons 30
New York Jets vs. Falcons in London, Oct. 10 at 9:30 a.m.
Bye Week
Falcons at Miami Dolphins, Oct. 24 at 1 p.m.
