Billy Bowman: Everything you need to know

Bowman sustained a torn Achilles in practice and will miss the remainder of the season, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports. The rookie from Oklahoma was placed on the injured reserve list Saturday, and it has since been clarified that he won't return this season. Bowman had a productive first year while on the field, appearing in just six games but recording 26 total tackles, including 2.5 sacks, two passes defended, with one interception, and one forced fumble. Expect Dee Alford to operate as Atlanta's top slot defender while Bowman is sidelined for the remainder of the year.

The Falcons placed Bowman (Achilles) on injured reserve Saturday, Tori McElhaney of the team's official site reports. Bowman suffered an Achilles injury during Atlanta's walkthrough Friday, and the issue is serious enough for him to land on IR. As a result, he'll miss at least the next four games, though his absence may extend longer given the nature of the injury. The Falcons signed cornerback Cobee Bryant to the 53-man roster Saturday to help absorb the loss of Bowman. Dee Alford may see the biggest jump in defensive snaps following Bowman's injury.

Bowman suffered an Achilles injury during Friday's walkthrough and won't play Sunday against the Saints, Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site reports. Head coach Raheem Morris said Bowman's injury "is not good," which may be hinting at an extensive absence to come, but for now, Bowman has only been ruled out through Sunday's game. Mike Ford could be in line to take over as Atlanta's nickel cornerback.