Falcons Rookie Anterio Thompson Diagnosed With Spinal Condition

Sudden end to a football career

Atlanta Falcons rookie defensive tackle Anterio Thompson announced this week that his playing career is over. The 24 year old revealed on Instagram that medical personnel told him he would never play football again because of a genetic mutation in his spinal cord.

"Mentally, I've been better than anyone would be in my situation," Thompson wrote on Instagram. "I was told I would never play football again due to a genetic mutation in my spinal cord that I had no idea about."

Thompson added that while athletes know they will eventually have to stop playing, they hope to leave on their own terms. He shared that it was hard to explain the feeling of moving from the highest highs to the lowest lows in seconds.

Background with the Falcons

The Falcons selected Thompson in the sixth round of the 2026 draft. During his final college season at the University of Washington, he recorded 1.5 sacks and 2.5 tackles for a loss.

Thompson had been placed on the reserve list for non football injuries during training camp. He had not been with the team since the spring. Before his social media statement, no medical details had been shared publicly by the team or his representatives.

Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski told reporters on Friday that he had no update on the rookie, speaking before the post circulated. Thompson was technically eligible to return this season, but his medical diagnosis brings his time on the field to a close.

What it means for the next game

Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL, Sun, 01 Nov): Tampa Bay Buccaneers win 50%, Atlanta Falcons win 50%; projected score Tampa Bay Buccaneers 22, Atlanta Falcons 21. Our safest pick: Falcons +9.5.

Cincinnati Bengals at Atlanta Falcons (NFL, Sun, 08 Nov): Atlanta Falcons win 38%, Cincinnati Bengals win 62%; projected score Atlanta Falcons 23, Cincinnati Bengals 27. Our safest pick: Bengals +4.