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Flowery Branch Today
By the People, for the People
Atlanta Falcons sign DL Da'Shawn Hand
The versatile lineman joins Atlanta's defense after playing for multiple teams
Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:56am
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The Atlanta Falcons have signed free agent defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand. Hand was a fourth-round pick by the Detroit Lions in 2018 after a standout college career at Alabama. The 6-foot-3, 302-pound lineman has the versatility to play multiple techniques on Atlanta's front, giving defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich flexibility in deploying a hybrid scheme.
Why it matters
The Falcons have made a concerted effort to bolster their defensive line this offseason, with Hand joining Chris Williams and Cameron Thomas as new additions. This reflects the team's belief that championship-caliber defenses are built from the trenches up.
The details
Hand spent the 2025 season with the Los Angeles Chargers, starting 13 games for a defense that ranked highly in several statistical categories. In his eight-year career, he has also played for the Tennessee Titans, Miami Dolphins, and Detroit Lions, appearing in 77 games with 26 starts. Hand has recorded 131 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, 9 pass defenses, and 4 forced fumbles.
- The NFL's new league year began on Wednesday, March 17, 2026 at 4 p.m.
The players
Da'Shawn Hand
A 6-foot-3, 302-pound defensive lineman who was a fourth-round pick by the Detroit Lions in 2018 and has played for multiple teams in his eight-year NFL career.
Jeff Ulbrich
The defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, known for his ability to deploy a flexible, hybrid defensive scheme.
Ian Cunningham
The general manager of the Atlanta Falcons, who has emphasized the importance of building through the trenches.
Chris Williams
A defensive lineman who was also signed by the Falcons this offseason to bolster their defensive front.
Cameron Thomas
A defensive end who was signed by the Falcons this offseason to add to their defensive line.
What they’re saying
“There's a huge investment in defense, especially the defensive line and front. To me, that's where championship teams are built, not just championship defenses. I saw this graphic about every playoff team and their investment in their defensive line, whether it be draft capital or money, and the top defensive lines in the NFL were all the playoff teams.”
— Jeff Ulbrich, Defensive Coordinator
“It seems like there is just new energy in the building. I'm ready to come in and help create a championship atmosphere.”
— Da'Shawn Hand
“Being able to play with freedom. Not thinking too much, and just being a dog and making plays.”
— Da'Shawn Hand
The takeaway
The Falcons' offseason focus on strengthening their defensive line reflects a league-wide trend of top playoff teams investing heavily in their trenches. By adding versatile players like Da'Shawn Hand, Atlanta is positioning itself to field a more formidable defense that can compete with the best in the NFL.
