David Onyemata Reveals Reasons for Signing with Falcons in Free Agency
The Atlanta Falcons made a splash on the first day of free agency, signing defensive tackle David Onyemata to a three-year deal.
Onyemata spent the past seven seasons with the rival New Orleans Saints and the last six being coached by Ryan Nielsen, who became the defensive coordinator for the Falcons earlier this offseason.
Onyemata explained that his connection with Nielsen is a big reason behind signing with the Falcons.
"It's the connections," Onyemata told FOX 5. "Especially with Grady (Jarrett) and the guys up front and the whole defense in general. Especially knowing the mind behind the defense (Ryan Nielsen) - I've been around him for years, and he's helped my game in ways I can't even say. It's so many factors, and I think we've got the group - we've got the people to make it happen. So, that kind of plays its own factor."
Last season, Onyemata recorded five sacks for the Saints. Had he been on the Falcons, that number would have put him in second place behind Grady Jarrett, who had six. The Falcons finished 31st in sacks this past season and need immediate help in that department. Onyemata is a sign that the defensive line is improving and on the come up for the 2023 season.
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