Former Falcons center James Stone reached an injury settlement with the team Tuesday.
Stone, who played in college at Tennessee and made the Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2014, was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury last season. He did not take part in the offseason program.
Stoney, a heady left-handed snapper, played in seven games with one start last season. Overall, Stone played in 19 games with 10 starts.
The Falcons are set at the position after signing former Pro Bowler Alex Mack in free agency to a five-year, $47.5 million contract. He’s expected to add some moxie to the line.
“Alex brings a lot of experience,” offensive line coach Chris Morgan said. “He’s played a lot of ball. He brings toughness. He’s a really smart and vocal guy.”
Ben Garland and Jake Reed played center behind Mack over the offseason program.
Mike Person, who was the main starter at center last season, was shifted back to his natural guard position. Center Joe Hawley was released last season and ended up starting for Tampa Bay. Gino Gradkowski was not re-signed. He landed in Carolina.
The position has been problematic for the Falcons since they elected not to re-sign Todd McClure after the 2012 season. They elected to give former second-round pick Peter Konz a chance to start. He was not successful and was released last season.
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