What happened: Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. and linebacker Divine Deablo are active for Sunday's matchup. Pearce makes his season debut after being listed as questionable with a back injury. Deablo returns to defensive duties after missing time on the injury report.

Why it matters: Pearce's return bolsters Atlanta's pass rush along the edge for the first time this season. Deablo stabilizes the second level of the defense after consecutive weeks of limited availability. The defensive reinforcements arrive ahead of a Week 9 meeting against Cincinnati.

What to watch: Atlanta takes the field against Cincinnati with both defenders in uniform. The coaching staff will manage snap counts for Pearce in his first game action.