Defensive tackle just became an even bigger need for the Falcons.

Trey Lewis re-injured his surgically repaired right knee in a freak accident and will require additional surgery, according to his agent, Richard Katz.

"He's having some surgery this week," Katz said. "Basically, he's lost the three months that he's been rehabbing."

Lewis suffered the latest setback coming down a set of stairs. He first injured his knee, a torn anterior cruciate ligament against Tampa Bay on Nov. 18.

"It's tough for us, but it is also disappointing for Trey because he was making tremendous progress in his rehabilitation," Falcons coach Mike Smith said.

Lewis, a sixth-round pick last year from Washburn (Kan.), moved into the starting lineup after Grady Jackson was released. He figured heavily in the team's plans for the upcoming season.

The loss of Lewis further weakens the defensive tackle position for the Falcons. Starter Rod Coleman was cut last month, and reserves Tim Anderson and Montavious Stanley are free agents.

"He's hoping he can rehab it and get back for the season," Katz said. "He wants to play."

Before his injury, Lewis had shown signs of explosiveness. He made his first start against Houston in Week 4, and he had 23 tackles, one interception and one pass defensed in nine games.

"It was just a freak accident," Katz said. "He was doing so good with his rehab, too."

The Falcons have the third pick in April's draft and may have a chance to draft LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey or Southern Cal defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis.