The Atlanta Falcons placed rookie outside linebacker Bralen Trice and cornerback Harrison Hand on the injured list in a series of transfers announced Sunday. Atlanta signed wide receiver Jakeem Grant, running back Spencer Brown and quarterback John Paddock.
As part of a related transaction, the Falcons also released former CFL quarterback Nathan Rourke. Rourke had an inconsistent performance in Friday’s loss to the Miami Dolphins.
Trice was selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft and had played well in Atlanta’s season opener before tearing his ACL late in the first half. The rookie is a big loss as the team did little to improve the outside linebacker position in the offseason.
We have made the following changes to the squad:
– Signed by Jakeem Grant
– Signed John Paddock
– Signed Spencer Brown– Nathan Rourke released
– Bralen Trice placed on IR
– Harrison Hand placed on IR— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) 11 August 2024
Grant, 31, is a former Pro Bowl kick returner who suffered two season-ending injuries in 2022 and 2023. With Rondale Moore out, Grant should be able to contribute as a fourth/fifth wideout and add some momentum to Atlanta’s return game.
Brown, 25, appeared in six games for Carolina from 2021 to 2022, recording nine carries for 43 rushing yards. The experienced running back can provide depth and support on special teams.
Paddock was an undrafted free agent who signed with the Falcons a few months ago, and after temporarily losing his job to Rourke, the former Illinois quarterback is now returning to Atlanta for a second look.
