The season of injuries continues strong. The Atlanta Falcons lost Devonta Freeman for likely the rest of the season thanks to a groin injury this week. It started with Deion Jones and Keanu Neal going to injured reserve after Week 1. Then came Andy Levitre, Ricardo Allen, Grady Jarrett, Matt Bryant, and even today injuries of unknown severity to Mohamed Sanu and Calvin Ridley.

Just when you think the Falcons could not have any other injuries, Dan Quinn confirmed rumors from earlier in the day: Frederick Falcon is heading to injured reserve.

“This may be the toughest injury to overcome this season. After consulting with multiple doctors, it was determined that Freddie [Falcon] needs to undergo surgery. He won’t return this season. But there’s no quit in this team. We are always talking about next-man-up. It’s time for some younger guys to step up and keep us in this season. We know Freddie, and he’s going to fight to come back healthier, stronger, and hungrier than ever.”

This is disappointing news, especially since Quinn previously stated the injury was not expected to keep Freddie out for long. Quinn expressed vague but optimistic statements about Freddie getting closer, and yesterday’s MRI being only precautionary. Not even 24 hours ago, Quinn described being “very optimistic” Freddie could suit up against the Giants.

“We might not be able to replace Freddie’s sunny demeanor, the feathers he leaves all over the damn place, or his breakdancing skills, we know he will be around the facility, rehabbing, motivating players, and working on his hype skills.”

Atlanta has no good replacements for Freddie at this time. The team could trade for Swoop from the Philadelphia Eagles, or take a radical route and sign Fredbird from the St. Louis Cardinals. Neither would come close to Freddie.

The roster move marks the 6th starter placed on injured reserve after only six games.