FLOWERY BRANCH – Falcons linebacker Philip Wheeler is starting to get more comfortable with the team's defense since being signed on Oct. 20.
Wheeler, the Columbus native who played at Georgia Tech, started for the Falcons and led the defense with 10 tackles against San Francisco.
“It’s just feels really good just to play football again,” Wheeler said. “I was out for half of the season almost. It just feels good to be back out there with the team that’s a contender and just try to see what I can do to help.”
Wheeler, 30, was drafted in the third round by the Colts in 2008. He played for the Colts through the 2011 season. He’s since played with Oakland (2012) Miami (2013-14) and was in camp with San Francisco in 2015 before being released on Sept. 4.
He started in place of Justin Durant against the 49ers and is up for more time, according to head coach Dan Quinn.
“It felt good,” Wheeler said. “Anytime that you can dress out and play game, do what you love, it’s a great feeling.”
After being signed, Wheeler was inactive against Tennessee. He played against Tampa Bay and started because of injury against the 49ers.
“Number one, for him coming in and learning the system in a short order, I thought he did a really good job,” Quinn said. “It was no surprise just based on the football experience that he’s had. He’s been a really good addition for us. I’m looking for his role to continue to increase as we’re going.”
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