Falcons linebacker Philip Wheeler was a late addition, but the former Georgia Tech linebacker ended up paying big dividends for the defense.
When the linebacker corps was beset with injuries, the Falcons signed Wheeler on Oct. 20.
The former Georgia Tech standout was originally drafted by the Colts. He spent time with the Raiders, Dolphins and 49ers. He was able to quickly pick up the defense and contribute.
“I would love to come back next year,” Wheeler said on Monday. “I appreciate the opportunity that they gave me to play here. We had some good times and some bad times. Some wins and some losses, but it was a great opportunity.”
Wheeler, who’s from Columbus, played in nine games and made two starts. He finished with 29 tackles.
“I think it’s definitely a good situation the way the defense improved since last year,” Wheeler said. “I think the sky is the limit for them.”
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