Dec 18, 2022; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; General view of a Atlanta Falcons helmet during warm ups against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
In a significant move for their defense, the Atlanta Falcons have signed cornerback Harrison Hand for the upcoming training camp, marking his return after missing the 2023 season. The announcement came on Tuesday afternoon, as the Falcons made room on their roster by releasing undrafted free agent rookie cornerback Anthony Sao.
Harrison Hand, previously with the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears, brings experience to the Falcons’ secondary. He last played in 2022, appearing in four games with one start for the Bears, accumulating 24 tackles, four pass breakups, and an interception during his NFL career.
Hand was drafted by the Vikings in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft and played two seasons in Minnesota before joining the Bears. His interception came against Saints quarterback Drew Brees in 2020, demonstrating his ability to impact games.
The Falcons’ decision to sign Hand follows their earlier move to bring back defensive tackle Eddie Goldman, who had retired after a short stint with the team in 2022. Goldman, known for his impactful play, re-joined the Falcons despite previously retiring and being placed on the “exempt/left squad list” after not participating in practice for two seasons.
Head coach Arthur Smith had initially stated he did not plan to bring Goldman back after the 2023 season, but the team’s needs and Goldman’s availability led to his return. Goldman’s addition and now Hand’s signing aim to bolster the Falcons’ defensive depth ahead of the 2024 season.
The Falcons will hope Hand can make a meaningful contribution and help solidify their defense as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming NFL campaign.
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