Falcons Sign Veteran Safety Jordan Fuller to Boost Defense

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran safety Jordan Fuller, bolstering their defense as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season. The move comes after the team opted not to re-sign former safety Justin Simmons, leaving a critical gap in their secondary.

Fuller, 27, previously played under defensive coordinator Raheem Morris during his tenure with the Los Angeles Rams from 2021 to 2023, making this signing a familiar reunion. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Fuller is expected to step into a starting role alongside Pro Bowl free safety Jessie Bates.

“Jordan is a consistent force against the run and a capable tackler, which is something we desperately needed,” said a source close to the Falcons. “His experience playing in a tough defense under Coach Morris gives us confidence in his ability to adapt.”

Drafted by the Rams in the sixth round out of Ohio State in 2020, Fuller quickly became a key defensive player, accumulating 55 starts in his five-year career. Despite injuries hampering his previous season with Carolina—where he played in only nine games and recorded 54 tackles, one pass defended, and one forced fumble—his history of impactful play remains notable.

In 2021, Fuller was instrumental in the Rams’ Super Bowl run, recording a career-high 113 tackles as a rookie. However, injuries have been a recurring issue; he missed significant playoff games in 2021 and suffered a late-season ankle injury in 2023, limiting his impact significantly.

Fuller’s signing, however, is seen as a critical addition by analysts, especially since Pro Football Focus rated him among the top 20 safeties before his injury struggles began. After receiving a disappointing rank of 82nd in 2023, Fuller is looking to re-establish himself in Atlanta.

“With a healthy season ahead, Fuller has the potential to revive his career and significantly impact the Falcons’ defense,” said Morris during a press conference. “He brings a wealth of experience and leadership to our young defensive unit.”

The Falcons aim to solidify their secondary with this strategic signing, as they still prioritize improving their pass rush in the upcoming 2025 NFL draft. The team hopes that Fuller’s addition will strengthen their defensive lineup as they look to compete in the NFC South.

With a seasoned player like Fuller alongside emerging talents, the Falcons’ defense is poised for a resurgence. Fans are eager to see how he fits into the scheme under new defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, marking a renewed hope for an improved season ahead.