Courtney Upshaw

Falcons sign run-stuffer Courtney Upshaw

The Atlanta Falcons signed linebacker Courtney Upshaw, formerly of the Baltimore Ravens, to a one-year contract.

What It Means:

The former second-round pick has been a steady run-stuffing presence since arriving in the league as a second-round pick in 2012. Upshaw has recorded 183 tackles, four forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries in that span without missing a game. He's expected to play strong side linebacker in the Falcons' 4-3 scheme. Upshaw's signing suggests the Falcons are ready to move on from free agent O'Brien Schofield.

In 2015, Atlanta ranked 19th in Adjusted Defensive Rushing Net Expected Points per play. Upshaw tallied 51 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and two passes defended last season.