Falcons Sign Ex-USFL LB to Practice Squad After Landman Injury

Atlanta Falcons breakout inside linebacker Nate Landman was a non-participant during Wednesday’s practice due to a thigh injury following Sunday’s 24-15 win over the New Orleans Saints. However, the good news is that Falcons coach Arthur Smith does not believe the injury is a “significant” one. Yet, that didn’t stop the Falcons from adding Frank Ginda to their practice squad, as first reported by team reporter Terrin Waack. Ginda, the former USFL Defensive Player of the Year, is a familiar face in Flowery Branch after joining the Falcons back in August. Ginda played in two preseason games for the Falcons and finished with 12 total tackles before being cut.

Now he returns to Atlanta essentially as a backup option just in case Landman is unexpectedly unable to play on Sunday versus the New York Jets. Before Landman’s injury, the Falcons were already dealing with a thin inside linebacker room after Troy Andersen was placed on the injured reserve with a pectoral injury that required him to undergo potentially season-ending surgery just three games in.

Oct 22, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker Nate Landman (53) causes a fumble by Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Deven Thompkins (83) in the third quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports Andersen, the former second-round pick, was expected to play a major role in his second year, as he was the anticipated pair with Kaden Elliss as the two starting inside backers. However, that pairing lasted two games due to a concussion and then the pectoral injury. With Andersen sidelined, the Falcons turned to Landman, who, despite being an undrafted free agent in the 2022 NFL Draft, has surpassed expectations since being called upon.

In 11 games, of which he started in nine, Landman has totaled 73 tackles, four for a loss, four quarterback hits, two sacks, a forced fumble, and an interception. Landman currently ranks third on the team in tackles, only behind Jessie Bates III and his linebacker partner Elliss. As for the rest of the Falcons’ participation report, running back Cordarrelle Patterson and Calais Campbell joined Landman as non-participants due to rest days. Additionally, receiver Mack Hollins and left tackle Jake Matthews were limited, while cornerback Mike Hughes was a full participant.