Falcons Re-Sign LB DeAngelo Malone to 1-Year Deal

Former 3rd-round pick looks to earn roster spot after up-and-down first 4 seasons in Atlanta.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:22pm

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The Atlanta Falcons have re-signed linebacker DeAngelo Malone to a 1-year contract, bringing back the 2022 3rd-round draft pick who has struggled to make a consistent impact on defense but has carved out a role on special teams.

Why it matters

Malone was a high draft pick by the previous Falcons regime, so his continued presence on the roster shows the new team leadership is willing to give him another opportunity to prove himself despite underwhelming production so far in his NFL career.

The details

Malone was selected by the Falcons in the 3rd round (pick 82) of the 2022 NFL Draft, with the hope he would boost their pass rush. However, he has only logged 90 defensive snaps per season on average and recorded just 3 sacks in 4 years. While Malone has been a serviceable special teams player, he was part of a poor special teams unit in 2025 and had the most missed tackles of his career that season. Still, Malone did make a game-sealing interception against the Bills last year, showing he can make plays when given the opportunity.

  • Malone was drafted by the Falcons in 2022.
  • He has played 4 seasons with the Falcons from 2022 to 2025.
  • Malone re-signed with the Falcons on a 1-year deal in 2026.

The players

DeAngelo Malone

A linebacker who was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the 3rd round (pick 82) of the 2022 NFL Draft.

Terry Fontenot

The former general manager of the Atlanta Falcons who drafted Malone in 2022.

Zach Harrison

A defensive player for the Buffalo Bills whose deflected pass led to Malone's game-sealing interception.

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What’s next

Malone will need to continue to prove his worth on special teams and make the most of any defensive snaps he receives in order to earn a roster spot with the Falcons in 2026.

The takeaway

DeAngelo Malone's continued presence on the Falcons roster, despite underwhelming production so far, shows the new team leadership is willing to give him another chance to prove himself. His special teams experience and willingness to do the 'dirty work' could help him earn a spot, but he'll need to make the most of any opportunities on defense as well.