William Moore Injury: Updates on Falcons Safety's Shoulder and Recovery

Ahead of the most critical game of the 2014 NFL season for the Atlanta Falcons, they will be without a veteran defensive player. Coach Mike Smith announced safety William Moore will be placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury.        

The Falcons official Twitter account made the news official:

Moore, 29, has been a significant presence for Atlanta's secondary when he's on the field. The 2009 second-round pick has recorded 25 tackles and two forced fumbles this season but has only played in seven games due to the shoulder ailment.

Returning to the field against New Orleans in Week 16, Moore recorded two tackles before exiting the game. Zach Klein of WSB noted how critical the injury is for Atlanta:

The Falcons face the Carolina Panthers this weekend at home for a chance to make the playoffs. Despite their 6-9 record, Atlanta has gone 5-0 in the NFC South and would capture the division with a victory over Carolina.

However, the Falcons went 2-6 without Moore on the field in Weeks 5 through 12. One of those wins included a road triumph against the Panthers in Week 11—something they'll desperately need again to make the postseason.

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