Full Breakdown
Falcons Linebacker Kendal Daniels Carted Off with Neck Injury
By Drooid · · How we work
Background & Context
Atlanta rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels entered the 2026 season as a fourth-round pick (No. 134 overall) from Oklahoma after splitting his college career between Oklahoma State and Oklahoma. By Week 6 he had started every game, assuming the “green-dot” defensive play-calling role after fellow linebacker Divine Deablo left the first half with an arm injury. The Falcons were trailing the Chicago Bears when Daniels’ injury occurred.
Data & Statistics
- Age: 23 years; Height: 6-ft-5; Weight: 242 lb.
- NFL Combine: 4.76-second 40-yard dash; 29.5-in vertical.
- 2026 season to Oct. 18: 22 tackles (12 solo), 1 sack, 1 pass defensed, 2 tackles for loss.
- In the Bears game he recorded seven tackles, including a loss, before exiting.
Official Statements & Responses
Fox Sports reported he was fully conscious and retained full movement of his extremities when transported. No official diagnosis or timetable for a return was announced.
Verbatim Quotes
Timeline
- Third quarter, Oct. 18, 2026 – Daniels attempts a low tackle on Bears tight end Colston Loveland; his facemask contacts Loveland’s knee and his head strikes the turf.
- Immediately after – Trainers cut his jersey and shoulder pads, immobilize his neck on a backboard, and teammates kneel in support.
- Several minutes later – Daniels is placed on a stretcher and carted off the field; the game is delayed.
- Post-game – The Falcons confirm he was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital, noting he remained alert with movement in all extremities.
What’s Next
The Falcons indicated they will provide additional medical updates as information becomes available. No specific return date or diagnosis has been released.