Atlanta Falcons linebacker Troy Andersen has been named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his dominant performance in Sunday’s 26-24 win over the New Orleans Saints.
Andersen had arguably the best game of his young career, racking up 17 tackles (10 solo), an interception and a touchdown to help the team escape with a two-point victory. The third-year linebacker’s pick-six was an impressive display of his instincts and athleticism.
Matthew Judon tipped a first-half Derek Carr pass into the air and Andersen came down with it before outrunning every Saints player in sight for the score.
T-ROYYYYYY
Your NFC Defensive Player of the Week, @troy_andersen! pic.twitter.com/UWcLLKhgHI
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) October 2, 2024
While Andersen’s Week 4 performance was a great sign for the former second-round pick, his status for Thursday night’s game against the Buccaneers is in doubt. Andersen suffered a knee injury in the fourth quarter and did not return.
The Falcons opted not to place the young linebacker on the injured reserve list, but he has yet to practice this week. If Andersen can’t play on Thursday, rookie fifth-round pick JD Bertrand will get the start.
Thus far in 2024, Andersen has 44 tackles (26 solo), one interception and one defensive touchdown.
