Following their first preseason game, the Falcons are tweaking the roster by signing USFL 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, linebacker Frank Ginda, according to Tom Pelissero.
The #Falcons are signing the #USFL 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, linebacker Frank Ginda, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 13, 2023
After spending the 2018 and 2019 training camps with the Dolphins and Saints, respectively, Ginda joined the Michigan Panthers of the USFL, where he would go on to lead the league in tackles en route to the Defensive Player of the Year honor.
As of right now, the linebackers on the team are Kaden Elliss, Troy Andersen, Mykal Walker, Tae Davis, Nate Landman, and Mike Jones Jr., but there must be a coordinating move to sign Ginda.
There could be a case where one of the aforementioned linebackers suffered an injury, but it wouldn’t be surprising if the Falcons just wanted to add a little more competition to the unit.
I had Davis earning the final spot in my 53-man roster projection because of his experience on special teams; he also had an impressive showing against the Dolphins, so he’d still be considered the favorite in my estimation. However, I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge Landman’s standing with the coaching staff and the prospect of him edging out Davis for the spot.
Ginda has an uphill battle towards making the roster or practice squad, but it’s a notable acquisition and should motivate Walker, Davis, and Landman that their spots aren’t safe. The only locks to make the roster are Elliss and Andersen. With a new staff, led by Ryan Nielsen, the Falcons are genuinely having an open competition. I wouldn’t be shocked if someone like Mykal Walker, who many consider a lock to make the roster, is in jeopardy of losing his job because of his lack of ties to Nielsen.
Nevertheless, we will find out more when the Falcons officially announce the signing to go along with the corresponding move.
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