The Atlanta Falcons have taken a significant step to reinforce their defensive front by signing three experienced veterans: edge rushers Azeez Ojulari and Samson Ebukam, along with defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand. The moves, finalized and announced by the team on March 16, 2026, demonstrate a clear commitment from General Manager Ian Cunningham and Head Coach Kevin Stefanski to add proven NFL starters who bring both skill and leadership to a defense in the midst of a rebuild.
Veteran Edge Presence: Ojulari and Ebukam
The Falcons' signings of Azeez Ojulari and Samson Ebukam provide immediate boosts to the pass rush, an area that has needed consistent disruption in recent seasons. Ojulari, who originally entered the league as a promising second-round pick in 2021, brings dynamic athleticism and the potential to be a game-changing presence off the edge. After an injury-plagued period with the New York Giants, where he showed flashes with an 8.0-sack rookie campaign, Ojulari arrives in Atlanta at age 26 with fresh opportunity and a coaching staff led by defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich tasked with unlocking his full potential.
Samson Ebukam, a seasoned veteran with nearly a decade in the NFL, complements this high-upside signing. Ebukam has earned a reputation for consistent production and durability during his tenures with the Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, and Indianapolis Colts. Notably reliable in both run defense and pass rush, Ebukam's experience and sound technique make him a stabilizing force. His ability to set the edge and execute disciplined assignments aligns with the Falcons' need for a dependable performer who can mentor younger defensive players.
Interior Line Reinforcement: Da'Shawn Hand
Da'Shawn Hand adds valuable versatility and depth to the Falcons' defensive tackle rotation. The 6-foot-3, 297-pound veteran has shown capability as both a run-stuffer and an interior pass rusher throughout his eight-year career. After being drafted in the fourth round in 2018, Hand has built a reputation as a reliable rotational lineman with the strength to absorb double teams and the agility to press the pocket inside. While his career has been occasionally hampered by injuries, his ability to provide quality snaps and strategic versatility make him a key piece of the Falcons' plan to strengthen their front seven.
In Atlanta, Hand is expected to share duties on the defensive line, helping to keep starters fresh and reinvigorate a run defense that must improve to support the team's offensive firepower.
Leadership, Experience, and Depth
These signings signal the Falcons' focus on building a defense that balances youthful promise with seasoned know-how. Instead of seeking marquee stars on headline-grabbing contracts, GM Ian Cunningham opted to assemble a collection of players with significant NFL starting experience and the traits needed to contribute to a winning culture. All three--Ojulari, Ebukam, and Hand--have faced adversity, whether through injuries or varied roles on past teams, and have persevered. Their blend of toughness, professionalism, and talent fits the "Falcons fit" model the front office champions.
Under the leadership of Head Coach Kevin Stefanski and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, these additions offer schematic flexibility. The duo can deploy Ojulari and Ebukam on passing downs to ramp up pressure while using Hand in diverse fronts to combat power running games. This approach aims to produce a more physical, less predictable defense that can better compete within the NFC South.
Strategic Timing Before the Draft
With the 2026 NFL Draft scheduled for late April, securing these veterans early gives Atlanta a solid and experienced foundation upon which to build through the draft. It also instills competition and provides insurance ahead of adding younger, potentially cost-controlled developmental players.
While these signings may not have dominated national headlines, within the Falcons organization they represent critical moves toward creating a more competitive defense. If even two of these three players perform to expectations, it could drastically improve the team's defensive production and help balance the strong offensive weapons already on the roster.
Looking Forward
The Falcons' front office has made clear that the work to improve the defense is ongoing. These veteran additions mark just the beginning of a multi-layered effort to create a well-rounded team capable of playoff contention. The combination of experienced players like Ojulari, Ebukam, and Hand with the promising young core already in place offers hope for a defense that can be both resilient and dynamic in the 2026 season.
By addressing key weaknesses upfront before the draft, the Falcons have laid groundwork that could pay dividends not only immediately but in the years to come. Fans can expect a defense that is more physical, disciplined, and opportunistic--cornerstones of a unit striving to support an offense that aims to be among the NFL's best.