CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 13: Adrian Clayborn #99 of the Atlanta Falcons watches the action against the Carolina Panthers at Bank Of America Stadium on December 13, 2015 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)Scott Cunningham/Getty Images

Adrian Clayborn Injury: Updates on Falcons DE's Bicep and Recovery

Adam WellsJan 14, 2017

The Atlanta Falcons lost defensive end Adrian Clayborn due to a torn bicep in the first half of Saturday's playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks, ending his season.

Continue for updates.

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Clayborn Ruled Out for Season

Sunday, Jan. 15

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Clayborn was diagnosed with a torn bicep, ending his postseason ahead of the NFC Championship Game.

Clayborn Is a Vital Cog of Falcons' Pass Rush

The Falcons had a much-improved pass rush during the regular season, increasing their sack total from an NFL-low 19 in 2015 to 34.

Vic Beasley's breakout season (15.5 sacks) was the biggest reason for the Falcons' improvement, but Clayborn still plays an essential role. The six-year veteran finished second on the team with five sacks despite missing three games after having knee surgery in November.

Trey Cunningham of Pro Football Focus noted Clayborn had just two quarterback hurries in the final two games after he returned from surgery.

While Clayborn's role on the Falcons defense is not small, the team is fortunate to have depth on the defensive line with Brooks Reed and Dwight Freeney ready to fill in.

The Falcons will go as far as their top-ranked offense carries them, but depth on defense is essential if they hope to keep the opposition at bay long enough to prevent them from getting into shootouts.