Falcons rookie Daniels returns to play week after injury

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 00:02 · Archive

Atlanta Falcons rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels returned to action a week after suffering a frightening injury and led the team to a 29-20 win over the previously unbeaten San Francisco 49ers.

Atlanta Falcons rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels returned to the field on Sunday, a week after suffering a frightening injury that left him stretchered off on a backboard with protective bracing. The 23-year-old had sustained a facemask-on-knee collision with Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland. Once cleared physically and released from hospital, Daniels faced the mental challenge of returning without lingering doubts.

In a game the Falcons desperately needed to win, Daniels delivered a dominant performance. He recorded a team-high 11 tackles, made a crucial interception in the fourth quarter and recovered a fumble. The Falcons defeated the previously unbeaten San Francisco 49ers 29-20, picking up their first home win of the season. Coach Kevin Stefanski rewarded the linebacker with a game ball.

Daniels acknowledged the mental hurdle of his return. 'I've never not walked off the field after an injury. So mentally, I had to be prepared. Going back home, I had to make sure I was OK mentally, more than anything, and not playing timid,' he said. His coach was impressed. 'I'm really proud of that kid,' Stefanski said.

How it is being reported

• A week after frightening injury, Falcons rookie Daniels comes up big in win over 49ersAtlanta Falcons rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels has made a quick turnaround from a frightening injury.Clickorlando · 25 Oct, 22:48
• A week after frightening injury, Falcons rookie Daniels comes up big in win over 49ersAtlanta Falcons rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels has made a quick turnaround from a frightening injury.News4Jax · 25 Oct, 22:48

In this story: Kendal Daniels · Atlanta Falcons · San Francisco 49ers · Kevin Stefanski · Colston Loveland · Brock Purdy

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