Falcons Sign UDFA FB to Practice Squad; Future Run Blocker?
The Atlanta Falcons are adding a unique player to the practice squad Tuesday.
According to NFL Network, the team is signing undrafted free agent Clint Ratkovich to the practice squad.
Ratkovich spent three seasons from 2017-19 with the Western Illinois Leathernecks before sitting out of 2020 and playing the 2021 campaign with the Northern Illinois Huskies.
During his time at Northern Illinois, Ratkovich burst onto the scene. After playing in limited action at Western Illinois, Ratkovich came out of nowhere in 2021, scoring 14 touchdowns.
Ratkovich tore his ACL shortly after the season during a workout, which prevented him from joining a team after the 2022 NFL Draft. However, teams have been keeping tabs on him, including the Falcons, who have given him his first NFL contract just before the end of the season.
The Falcons have committed to running the football as part of their identity, so signing a fullback - despite it becoming a dying position in the league - fits right on brand for Atlanta.
Ratkovich likely won't play in 2022, but with current fullback Keith Smith, 30, testing free agency this spring, there's a path for him to become a key contributor for the Falcons next season.
Follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.
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