FLOWERY BRANCH – Late in free agency, the Falcons re-signed outside linebacker/defensive end Kroy Biermann, after the team had parted ways with several other more productive veterans.
“Well, he was somebody that we always wanted back,” Falcons coach Dan Quinn said via phone from the owners’ meetings when asked why the team re-signed Biermann. “I’m thrilled that he is back.”
Biermann, 6-3, 255 pounds, was selected by the Falcons in the fifth-round (154th overall) of the 2008 NFL draft.
Biermann, who was battling back from Achilles surgery last season, led the team with 4.5 sacks last season.
In seven seasons in Atlanta, he has posted 273 tackles (202 solo) with 21 sacks, one fumble recovery, one forced fumble, two interceptions, and three defensive touchdowns. He's played in 98 games and made 37 starts. He flourished early in his career as a special teams player.
Biermann, who was signed to a one-year deal, will get a shot to play at the Leo hybrid linebacker/defensive end position in Quinn's 4-3 "under" defense. He received a $500,000 signing bonus, $325,000 roster bonus with $1.1 million in base salary.
“He’s played, has versatility and has experience playing defensive end, he has experience playing outside linebacker,” Quinn said. “But we are going to play him at our Leo spot. I can’t wait to get started with him and see his competition, attitude and finish. Those are all of the things that he can bring. I can’t wait to get started with him.”
Biermann, who made $4.082 million last season, re-signed for a 50 percent pay cut. He’s expected to contribute on special teams and earn a reserve role on the defense.
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COMBINE STORIES
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VIDEO DEPARTMENT
Watch: D. Led -- Falcons news at the combine
Watch: NFL Network's Mike Mayock at the combine
Watch: Todd Gurley has interviews set up with 24 NFL teams
Watch: Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff at the combine
Watch: Falcons coach Dan Quinn at the combine
Watch: Rams GM Les Snead on the pass-rush talent at the combine
FALCONS COMBINE MEETINGS
Oregon DE Arik Armstead talked scheme with the Falcons
Falcons met with Alabama quarterback Blake Sims
Falcons to meet with Florida DE Dante Fowler Jr.
Falcons met with Wake Forest CB Kevin Johnson
Falcons met with Alabama safety Landon Collins
PHOTO GALLERIES
Photographs from the 2015 NFL scouting combine
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