On Wednesday, the Atlanta Falcons ruled out tight end Kyle Pitts for the remainder of the season. But on the bright side, the team appears to be on the verge of getting another starter back on offense.
The Falcons have designated left guard Elijah Wilkinson to return from the injured reserve list. Wilkinson now has 21 days to officially be activated, and could potentially play Sunday if the coaching staff thinks he’s ready.
Arthur Smith said LG Elijah Wilkinson will return to practice today. Opens his window to return to active roster.
— Tori McElhaney (@tori_mcelhaney) November 30, 2022
According to Falcons head coach Arthur Smith, the 27-year old offensive lineman is getting closer but there’s no guarantee that he will be activated before Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Smith also provided an update (of sorts) regarding another injured offensive lineman.
Jalen Mayfield, last year’s starting left guard, has been out since training camp. The Falcons have yet to activate Mayfield, but believe he’s making progress.
"It comes down to his progress." Arthur Smith said the Falcons are still evaluating Jalen Mayfield's core strength, back health and overall conditioning to potentially be able to hold up through a whole game.
They have to make a decision this week as to what to do with Mayfield
— Tori McElhaney (@tori_mcelhaney) November 30, 2022
If both players are healthy, you have to assume the team will stick with Wilkinson at left guard. The former Bears lineman outplayed Mayfield during training camp and has thus far been a slight upgrade over the former third-round pick in the regular season.
