Falcons Elevate Zach Harrison for Home Opener Against Panthers

The Atlanta Falcons are adding some familiar help to the defensive front ahead of their Week 2 matchup against the Carolina Panthers.

Atlanta has elevated defensive lineman Zach Harrison from the practice squad to the active roster as a standard practice squad elevation, making him available for Sunday’s home opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. 

Harrison’s elevation comes at an important time for the Falcons’ defensive line. Atlanta placed veteran defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand on injured reserve earlier this week after he suffered a quadriceps injury during the Falcons’ 20-13 season-opening loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

For Harrison, Sunday’s game represents another opportunity with the organization that selected him in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

The former Ohio State standout has appeared in 40 games for Atlanta, and Sunday’s matchup would mark his 41st. Harrison was particularly productive before a knee injury ended his 2025 season, recording 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, five quarterback hits and five tackles for loss in seven games. 

Harrison spent part of this year’s training camp working his way back from that injury. Atlanta initially included him on the active/non-football injury list before activating him in August. He was later waived as the Falcons adjusted their roster following league-wide cuts, cleared waivers and returned to Atlanta on the practice squad. 

Now, he’s back on the game-day roster.

The move provides Atlanta with additional depth up front as the Falcons look to build on an encouraging defensive performance in Pittsburgh. Despite the Week 1 loss, Atlanta held the Steelers to 226 total yards and limited them to 3-of-13 on third down.

Sunday also marks the Falcons’ 2026 home opener, with Atlanta looking for its first victory of the season against an NFC South opponent.

Next up: Falcons take on the Carolina Panthers at home on Sunday, Sept. 20.