The Atlanta Falcons have re-signed backup linebacker Kemal Ishmael to a one-year deal, according to the team website.
Atlanta took a seventh-round flyer on Ishmael in the 2013 NFL draft and it’s paid off well. Ishmael has been a solid and versatile depth defender who has mostly answered the bell when he gets meaningful snaps.
Since he was drafted, Ishmael has played in 81 games and started 20. He’s totaled 149 solo tackles, four tackles for a loss, 13 pass breakups, and a sack.
Ishmael offers depth at both safety and linebacker but his primary value for the Falcons is on special teams. He played 329 special teams snaps (74.8 percent) last season, the most of anyone on the team.
Atlanta also confirmed the reports of signing former Giants guard Adam Gettis.
