South Atlanta News

The Atlanta Falcons signed two wide receivers on Tuesday as the team commenced its first padded practice of training camp.

Jesse Matthews and James Washington have joined the 90-man roster. Matthews, an undrafted free agent, was initially picked up by the Houston Texans in 2023 but was placed on injured reserve without playing an NFL snap. His most productive collegiate season at San Diego State University came in 2021, with 57 receptions for 642 yards and nine touchdowns.

Washington brings five seasons of NFL experience, with 62 appearances and 25 starts. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round of the 2018 draft, he remained with the team until 2021 before spending a season with the Dallas Cowboys. Washington was last associated with the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 but was released before the season began. His best professional season occurred in 2019 when he recorded 44 receptions for 735 yards and three touchdowns.

These additions contribute to a significantly restructured receiver lineup for the Falcons in 2024. Previously, Drake London was the sole returning receiver from last year’s squad. The team has since signed another twelve receivers during the offseason under new position coach Ike Hilliard.

In related moves, Atlanta announced they are releasing rookie wide receiver Isaiah Wooden and placing offensive lineman Tyler Vrabel on the reserve/retired list.