The Atlanta Falcons will be featured in several primetime games this season, despite being in the midst of a long playoff drought. Their first primetime matchup comes in Week 2 on the road against the Minnesota Vikings. In recent years, the Falcons haven’t had many opportunities under the national spotlight due to being in rebuild mode. However, this season’s increased exposure could be credited to the Michael Penix Jr. effect.
“It’s a bit surprising that the Falcons have five prime-time games this season,” CBS Sports’ Jordan Dajani wrote. “I believe that’s because of the excitement surrounding Michael Penix Jr.”
On Tuesday, the Falcons’ chances in that Week 2 game may have improved, as Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison received a suspension from the NFL. Addison will miss the first three games of the season.
“NFL suspended Vikings WR Jordan Addison for the first three games of the 2025 regular season for violating the league’s Substances of Abuse Policy. Addison now will miss games at Chicago, vs. the Falcons and vs. the Bengals,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter posted.
The suspension stems from a DUI charge Addison received in 2024. In July, he accepted a plea deal for a lesser charge.
This is a significant development for the Falcons. With Addison out, Atlanta can focus on using A.J. Terrell to contain Justin Jefferson—who is also recovering from a hamstring injury. The game will mark the second career start for Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who missed all of last season. If the Falcons can apply pressure to McCarthy and take advantage of one of his top targets being sidelined, they could control the game.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Atlanta made pass rush a top priority this offseason and addressed it through key acquisitions. However, the one thing they cannot allow is for Minnesota’s run game to gain momentum. If the Falcons can force the Vikings to rely on the passing game, they’ll be in a strong position—unless Justin Jefferson has a breakout performance.
