Falcons Rookie Kendal Daniels Recovers Fumble, Seals Upset Win Over 49ers
Just one week after being stretchered off the field, Daniels made a game-changing play to hand the previously undefeated 49ers their first loss of the season.
Atlanta Falcons rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels, who was carted off the field on a stretcher the previous week, delivered a game-sealing fumble recovery in the Falcons' 30-21 upset victory over the undefeated San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.
With less than a minute remaining in the fourth quarter and the Falcons holding a nine-point lead, 49ers tight end George Kittle fumbled after making a catch. Daniels dove on the loose ball to secure possession for Atlanta, effectively clinching the win.
Daniels' performance was pivotal beyond the final minutes. He also recorded a career-high 11 tackles, including nine solo efforts, and intercepted a Brock Purdy pass that he nearly returned for a touchdown. The 49ers committed four turnovers in the game, all forced by the Falcons.
Daniels suffered a frightening neck injury during the Falcons' Week 6 game against the Chicago Bears after a collision. He was placed on a stretcher as a precaution but was conscious and moving. Days later, he was cleared to play and participated in practice, setting the stage for his impactful return against San Francisco.
"I scared a lot of people. It was a scary play," Daniels said, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "I’m blessed to come out how I did…"
The win moved the Falcons to 3-5 on the season, while handing the 49ers their first loss. The Falcons are set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their next NFC South matchup.