FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons announced a series of roster moves on Sunday following their joint practices and preseason game against the Miami Dolphins.
Here’s a summary of the key transactions:
– Outside linebacker Bralen Trice and cornerback Harrison Hand have been placed on the reserve/injured list.
– Quarterback Nathan Rourke has been released.
– Wide receiver Jakeem Grant, running back Spencer Brown, and quarterback John Paddock have been signed.
Both Trice and Hand suffered injuries during the recent practices and game in Florida.
Trice, a third-round draft pick, was injured during the Falcons’ preseason game last Friday. He suffered a knee injury while rushing the passer and had to be assisted off the field by two trainers. Trice had been performing well in training camp, securing significant reps with both the first and second teams. He was listed as the backup outside linebacker behind Arnold Ebiketie on the team’s depth chart.
Hand, a 2020 fifth-round draft pick, also sustained a knee injury during practice last Wednesday. The injury occurred during a deep pass play, and although Hand was able to leave the field on his own, he did not return to action. Hand, who had joined the Falcons in June, was listed as the third cornerback behind Mike Hughes and Clark Phillips III.
With both players on the injured reserve list, they will miss the entire 2024 season.
Nathan Rourke, who signed with the Falcons on August 1st, has been released after his brief stint with the team. Rourke, a former CFL player, saw limited action in the preseason game, completing three of 13 pass attempts for 37 yards and rushing for 24 yards on two carries.
The Falcons have signed Jakeem Grant, Spencer Brown, and John Paddock to bolster their roster. Grant, with six years of NFL experience, has been a versatile player in both offensive and special teams roles. Despite missing the last two seasons due to injuries, Grant has a notable track record with 100 receptions for 1,140 yards and seven touchdowns, along with leading the league in punt and kickoff return touchdowns.
Paddock returns to the Falcons after being released earlier this month. Spencer Brown, who was with the Carolina Panthers, has appeared in six games over two seasons and will provide additional depth in the running back position.
These moves come after the Falcons placed wide receiver Rondale Moore on the reserve/injured list last Thursday. Moore was initially listed as a backup for both offensive and special teams roles.
Overall, the Falcons are making adjustments to their roster as they deal with injuries and prepare for the upcoming season.