Atlanta Falcons WR Drake London IN, Mack Hollins OUT vs. Arizona Cardinals as Kyle Pitts Misses Practice
The Atlanta Falcons (4-5) will enter Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals (1-8) with receiver Drake London back in the fold but without fellow starting wideout Mack Hollins.
Falcons coach Arthur Smith announced Friday that London, who missed last week's 31-28 loss to the Minnesota Vikings with a groin injury, will play against Arizona.
Conversely, Hollins and starting nickel cornerback Dee Alford will be out for Sunday's contest due to ankle injuries.
Starting defensive tackle David Onyemata is questionable with an ankle injury.
The Falcons were without tight end Kyle Pitts at practice Friday, as Pitts was with his partner for the birth of their first child. Smith said Pitts will be back with the team Sunday.
Getting London back is a considerable boost for Atlanta's offense, as he leads the team in targets (57), receptions (37) and receiving yards (438).
The 22-year-old's return is only more important considering the absence of Hollins, who, among receivers, is second behind London in targets (29), receptions (17) and receiving yards (247).
With Hollins out, Atlanta will likely turn to Van Jefferson, KhaDarel Hodge and Scotty Miller.
Losing Alford is a critical blow to the Falcons' defense, as the former CFL star has enjoyed a breakout second season in Atlanta, posting 28 tackles, two tackles for loss and five passes defended.
Sixth-year pro Mike Hughes and fourth-round rookie Clark Phillips III are next up in the rotation at nickel.
Onyemata is tied for the team lead in sacks with three-and-a-half and is in sole possession of first place in tackles for loss (five) and quarterback hits (12). With fellow defensive tackle Grady Jarrett out for the season, Onyemata's value has only grown, and he'd be a key loss.
Should Onyemata be unable to play, Ta'Quon Graham and newly acquired Kentavius Street figure to see a bulk of the action inside.
The Falcons and Cardinals are set to kick off at 4:05 p.m. EST Sunday inside State Farm Stadium.