Ra'Shede Hageman Injury: Updates on Falcons DT's Concussion and Return

Many are expecting projected starter Ra'Shede Hageman to break out in 2015, but the Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle will have to overcome an injury first.

Continue for updates.

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Hageman Out vs. Jets With Concussion

Wednesday, Aug. 19

After leaving practice Tuesday with what Falcons head coach Dan Quinn characterized as a face or neck injury, Hageman was diagnosed with a concussion Wednesday, which means he will not suit up for Atlanta's preseason clash against the New York Jets on Friday, according to ESPN.com's Vaughn McClure.

Despite the obvious concerns that go along with head injuries, Quinn is seemingly optimistic about his status moving forward, per McClure.

"Hopefully, we'll get him back out here shortly," Quinn said. "He's doing well."

Hageman was a second-round pick out of Minnesota last year, and although he didn't start a single game, he played in all 16 contests and made a nominal impact to the tune of 16 tackles and one sack.

Despite his modest rookie campaign, Hageman is penciled in to start at defensive tackle in 2015 alongside nose tackle Paul Soliai. He has a ton of talent, and Knox Bardeen of Fox Sports South believes it has been on full display throughout training camp:

Hageman's injury comes at a less than ideal time since it could derail the great deal of momentum he had on his side, but he is lucky in that there is still plenty of time remaining in training camp.

Atlanta also has plenty of depth behind Hageman, as 10-year veteran Jonathan Babineaux and fifth-round rookie Grady Jarrett are both capable of stepping in for the time being.

Also, if Hageman's ailment carries over to the regular season for whatever reason, Atlanta's line won't be a lost cause with a veteran like Babineaux in the lineup.

At the same time, the Falcons ranked 30th in the NFL in sacks last season and in the middle of the pack against the run, which means the team needs a potential difference-maker like Hageman back in the fold to truly make strides as a defense.

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