The Falcons prioritized defensive back depth Friday, announcing the signings of two free agent safeties to two-year deals.
First, the team confirmed ESPN’s earlier report that they have inked former Rams safety Afolabi Laguda (6-foot-1, 205 pounds). He played college ball at Colorado and went undrafted. He signed with LA as a rookie but suffered an injury and was waived before the season began.
The Falcons also announced that they’ve signed Chris Cooper (5-foot-10, 202 pounds), who went undrafted as well. He first signed with the Colts out of college, got injured, then finished the season on the Chiefs practice squad.
It’s somewhat odd that both are getting two-year contracts, given the roles they are likely to play on the roster. Ricardo Allen and Keanu Neal are locked in as starters when they’re healthy. Unless another round of cataclysmic injuries hits the safety position, neither Cooper nor Laguda will see much playing time on defense.
This may be a sign that Atlanta will not be prioritizing safeties in the draft.
