The Atlanta Falcons will be without a key defensive back for much of next season. The Falcons announced today that Jalen Collins has been suspended by the NFL for 10 games for violating the NFL's performance enhancing drug policy.
“We are extremely disappointed that for the second straight season we are dealing with a suspension for Jalen," Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said. "Such are the consequences when certain choices are made. Our decisions going forward will be based on what Dan and I feel is best for the team.”
Collins was previously suspended to start the 2016 season for four games. This is his second infraction, hence the 10 game suspension. Dimitroff's statement doesn't offer any support for Collins going forward.
While suspended, Collins will be eligible to practice and play in preseason games. However, once the regular season starts, he won't be able to re-join the team until Nov. 21st, one day after the Falcons' Week 11 game.
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Collins was a second round pick in 2015 out of LSU. He started six games at corner for the Falcons last year, picking off two passes and breaking up eight. The Falcons at least have solid depth at corner to survive without Collins. Desmond Trufant is back from injury and players like Robert Alford and Brian Poole played key roles last year. Atlanta also drafted Damontae Kazee in the fifth round this year, while former UDFA C.J. Goodwin Deji Olatoye has drawn praise in camp. Kazee has moved to safety in camp, with Blidi Wreh-Wilson serving as a nickel back behind Poole.
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