Falcons Sign Defensive Line Help Ahead of Second Preseason Game

The Atlanta Falcons brought in some additional support for their defensive line on Friday.

Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Eric Johnson II (98) leaves the field Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, after losing a game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The Atlanta Falcons have signed defensive tackle Eric Johnson II, according to a release from the team.

Johnson, 28, has great size for the position, coming in at 6-foot-4 and 340 pounds, but the former fifth-round selection has bounced around the NFL since being drafted in 2022. Johnson was taken by the Indianapolis Colts at No. 159, but was waived after just two seasons. He then spent time with the New England Patriots in 2024 before returning to the Colts in 2025.

The interior defender signed with the Minnesota Vikings in May, but was released earlier this week.

Across his four NFL seasons, the interior defender has played 51 games (zero starts), recording 41 tackles, 1.0 sack, three quarterback hits, two tackles for loss, and a fumble recovery. He appeared in 12 games for the Vikings last season, recording six tackles and one tackle for a loss.

In Atlanta, Johnson will add positional depth along the interior and will reunite with former defensive line coach Nate Ollie. The pair spent time together in Indianapolis in 2022 and 2023.

He will compete for a roster spot this summer with Marlon Tuipulotu, Anterio Thompson, Carlos Allen Jr., and LaCale London.

The Falcons have concluded its joint practices with the Colts in Indianapolis, and the teams are set to play their second preseason games of the summer on Saturday. Kickoff is schedule for 1:00 at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Sign up for our free Atlanta Falcons newsletter and follow us and 30,000 Falcons fans on Facebook and X for the latest news!