Falcons rookie Anterio Thompson says he was diagnosed with career-ending ‘genetic mutation’ in spinal cord: ‘I was told I would never play football again’

Thompson was placed on Atlanta's non-football injury list in July.

By Kari Anderson · Yahoo Sports

Published: Friday, 30 October 2026 at 7:48 PM

Key Things to Know

Falcons rookie Anterio Thompson announced a career-ending genetic mutation diagnosis in his spinal cord.
Thompson stated medical professionals told him he would never play football again.
The Atlanta Falcons previously placed the defensive tackle on the non-football injury list in July.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Atlanta Falcons rookie defensive tackle Anterio Thompson revealed he was diagnosed with a career-ending genetic mutation in his spinal cord. Thompson stated that medical professionals informed him he would never be able to play football again following the diagnosis.

The rookie defensive lineman was originally placed on Atlanta's non-football injury list in July. His disclosure confirms that the spinal cord condition will keep him off the field permanently.

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