Kevin

Mathis

Jason Webster will start for the Falcons. Running back Jason Wright, safety Etric Pruitt, linebacker Jamie Duncan, receiver Jimmy Farris, lineman Jarrett Peck, and end Travis Hall are the other inactives.

Mathis is a key player on the Atlanta defense, but this is a good trade for the Falcons. The loss of Trotter helps Atlanta’s running game.

Mathis, who was ejected before Monday Night’s game for fighting, tore his knee at practice Wednesday. He was Atlanta’s nickel corner. It won’t make headlines, but this is a key personnel loss for the Falcons at a troublesome position for them.

Mathis was on crutches after practice and will be sent for an MRI exam. ''It’s at least a sprain,’' head coach Jim Mora said. ''It locked up on him. He’ll have to be evaluated further before I can tell anything more than that. It’s not good.’' It appears this injury could be serious. We’ll give you more information as it unfolds.

Mathis suffered several knee injuries, including an ACL tear, and also hurt his left hamstring. He will be placed on injured reserve, ending his season.

None of the above practiced, but the team is “hopeful” all three will be ready.

Each are listed as questionable. Coach Mora said they were much better today, and he’s hopeful they’ll work tomorrow. Backup DE Travis Hall sounds further away from playing.

Jason Webster should start, regardless if Mathis plays. T Todd Weiner practiced and looks likely to play. DE Travis Hall also didn’t practice Friday. Mathis and Weiner will be gametime decisions.

The price tag will probably keep him as an underdog to unseat Jason Webster at a starting cornerback position.

Terms of the contract were not released. Mathis returned two picks for scores last year and will probably compete with Jason Webster for a starting job opposite DeAngelo Hall next season. Atlanta was hoping to do better in free agency at the position.