Falcons' Sam Baker could be done for season with possible torn tendon
Falcons offensive tackle Sam Baker could be done for the season after the initial diagnosis revealed that he may have suffered a torn patella tendon in his left leg, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com.
More tests will be done on him to determine the extent of the injury, but his season would likely be over if tests confirm the early diagnosis. On Saturday, Baker was carted the field with what was appeared to be a right knee injury during Atlanta's preseason game vs. the Houston Texans. Vaughn McClure of ESPN tweeted during the game that the initial word on Baker is that he hyper-extended his right knee.
The 29-year-old is one year removed from surgery on his left knee. He signed a six-year, $41 million deal with the Falcons in March 2013 and played in just four games last season.
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Lamar Holmes took his place on Saturday and could see additional time on the right side if Baker is out for an extended period. Jake Matthews could move to a left tackle position if Holmes takes Baker's place.
The Falcons play next on Aug. 23 against the Titans and kick off the regular season on Sept. 7 at home vs. the Saints.
- Marc Weinreich