The Atlanta Falcons have made a significant addition to their roster by signing safety Jordan Fuller, who joins the team after a stint with the Carolina Panthers. At 27 years old, Fuller brings considerable experience, having previously spent most of his five-year career with the Los Angeles Rams.
Fuller was drafted by the Rams in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, where he quickly made a name for himself as a capable starting safety. In his rookie season, he played in 12 games, recording 60 tackles, five pass breakups, and three interceptions. Despite a shoulder injury sidelining him for four games, Fuller emerged as a reliable player in the Rams' secondary.
During the 2021 season, Fuller started all games under the guidance of Falcons head coach Raheem Morris, who served as the Rams' defensive coordinator at the time. He elevated his game, achieving a career-high of 113 tackles, four pass breakups, and one interception. Sadly, his progress was interrupted again in 2022 when a hamstring injury limited him to just three games, though he did manage to force his first fumble.
The 2023 season saw Fuller bounce back strongly, starting every game and compiling 94 tackles, eight pass breakups, three interceptions, and three forced fumbles. His breakout year was a testament to his resilience, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
When he became a free agent in 2024, Fuller signed with the Carolina Panthers for what was hoped to be a fresh start. However, another hamstring injury plagued his season, limiting him to nine games where he recorded 54 tackles, one pass breakup, and another forced fumble. His injury issues have undoubtedly impacted his reputation, as Pro Football Focus ranked him much lower in 2024 compared to earlier in his career, suggesting he has been a shadow of his former self due to the wear and tear.
Now with the Falcons, Fuller is expected to team up with Jessie Bates III as part of a revamped secondary. The previous starter, Justin Simmons, became a free agent, leaving Fuller and Bates as a potentially formidable duo at safety.
Fuller's experience in previous seasons makes him a valuable asset to the Falcons' defense, especially under new defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich. With Fuller's track record of performing at a high level when healthy, this addition could bolster Atlanta's defensive lineup significantly.
Fuller’s history will certainly motivate him to deliver a standout performance to secure his place on the team and possibly elevate his contract status in future free agency periods. Historically, he has shown flashes of brilliance; now it’s about staying healthy and retaining that form consistently. As the Falcons gear up for the upcoming season, their confidence in Fuller reflects a belief that he can rediscover his best form in Atlanta.
In summary, the Atlanta Falcons' signing of Jordan Fuller represents not only a strategic move to solidify their defense but also a gamble on a player who, when healthy, can be a game-changer. The upcoming season will be pivotal for Fuller as he looks to prove that his best football is still ahead of him as he partners with Bates in the Falcons' secondary.
