Onyemata finished the 2024 season with 45 total tackles (23 solo), including 3.0 sacks, while also adding a pass defensed over 17 games.

EDGE Analysis

Onyemata was able to appear in all 17 of Atlanta's games this season, reaching 45 takedowns, which is his second-highest total in nine NFL campaigns. The nose tackle remains under contract with the Falcons for one more year and he'll likely return to his starting role with the team in 2025.

Onyemata recorded four total tackles (two solo), including 1.0 sacks, in Sunday's 17-13 loss to the Chargers.

EDGE Analysis

Onyemata was able to get to Justin Herbert for his first sack since Week 5, raising his season total to 2.0 sacks over 12 games. The defensive lineman has now registered 34 total tackles (17 solo), including the 2.0 sacks, while also securing a pass defensed in 2024.

Onyemata produced two tackles (one solo) during Sunday's 18-10 loss to the Steelers.

EDGE Analysis

Onyemata played 43 of Atlanta's 68 defensive snaps in Week 1, a solid amount for a 300-pound DT, but his production was lackluster. Onyemata finished with a career-high 50 tackles, including 4.0 sacks, last season, but he may face more double teams this season, as Atlanta's switch to a 3-4 defense may leave him alone in the middle of the trenches more often.

Onyemata finished 2023 with 50 tackles (25 solo), four sacks, three pass defenses and two forced fumbles in 14 appearances.

EDGE Analysis

After seven years in New Orleans, Onyemata joined the Falcons on a three-year deal last offseason. In his first season with Atlanta, the 2016 fourth-round pick notched career highs in tackles and forced fumbles despite missing three games due to injury. Onyemata likely won't flirt with double-digit sacks, but he's recorded multiple sacks in seven straight seasons, totaling 27 during that stretch. Onyemata figures to remain a key piece of Atlanta's defense over the next two seasons.

Onyemata (ankle) was a full participant at practice Friday, Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site reports.

EDGE Analysis

His availability at practice signals that Onyemata should suit up Sunday at Chicago. He figures to resume a starting role at nose tackle across from a run-heavy Bears offense in Week 17.

Onyemata (ankle) was limited in Wednesday's practice.

EDGE Analysis

Onyemata has been dealing with the ankle issue for weeks but was able to play last week after missing the previous two games. He played his normal allotment of snaps versus Indianapolis but recorded zero tackles and just one quarterback hit.

Onyemata (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Colts.

EDGE Analysis

The starting nose tackle is back after a two-game absence. Onyemata's return should relegate Ta'Quon Graham to the bench. Onyemata has 45 tackles, three passes defensed and two forced fumbles in 2023.

Onyemata (ankle) is considered questionable to play Sunday versus the Colts, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Onyemata was able to practice in a limited capacity this week after missing the last two games with an ankle injury, but his status is still uncertain for Week 16. If he's forced to sit out again, Ta'Quon Graham will draw another start at nose tackle.

Onyemata (ankle) was a limited participant during practice Thursday, Amna Subhan of the Falcons' official site reports.

EDGE Analysis

Onyemata was able to log a limited practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday's session with an ankle injury. The veteran nose tackle missed both Week 15 and 16, so his upgrade in practice participation is a good sign. Onyemata will have one more opportunity to turn in a full practice and head into a Week 16 matchup against the Colts without an injury designation.

Onyemata (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Scott Bair of the Falcons' official site reports.

EDGE Analysis

Onyemata entered the weekend deemed questionable to suit up Sunday, but he was officially ruled out Saturday. This will be his second straight missed contest and third overall this season. In Onyemata's stead, Ta'Quon Graham will likely see a larger role.