Falcons Cut Drake Jackson And Jared Ivey Ahead Of Week 9

The Atlanta Falcons recently made a roster shakeup on Monday, releasing two defensive players ahead of the upcoming Week 9 season. Outside linebacker Jared Ivey and defensive end Drake Jackson were cut from the 53-man roster immediately following their team's 16-0 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This decision comes as the Falcons prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals in the coming week, in need of fresh legs to bolster their defense.

Jared Ivey, who played just 17 snaps on Sunday without recording a single stat, had been on the roster since late August after being claimed off waivers. He appeared in seven games this season, registering one sack and two tackles for loss. Ivey started his NFL career with the Seattle Seahawks and was part of their Super Bowl victory in 2025. The team's move to release him, despite his past success, suggests a desire for new energy on defense.

Drake Jackson, on the other hand, appeared in 20 snaps over two games before his release. Joining the Falcons on October 24 after spending the previous season with the Washington Commanders, he was inactive for the Tampa Bay game. Jackson's struggles with staying healthy and consistent performance since being drafted by the 49ers in 2022 have led to his dismissal. The Falcons recognize the need for improved pass rush to counter the Bengals' offense.

The timing of this roster move indicates a deliberate plan to clear spots for active players like James Pearce Jr. and Yasir Abdullah, who are set to return from suspension and injury, respectively. Both players offer the necessary speed and run defense the Falcons need to face Joe Burrow. The team intends to bring Ivey and Jackson back to the practice squad, where they might quickly land spots as Super Bowl champions.

This decision to let players go is a common strategy in the NFL to accommodate returning stars without sacrificing valuable roster spots. The Falcons aim to maintain strong talent within the team while addressing immediate issues on defense. With the upcoming game against the Bengals, the defense must address its run issues, as they allowed 16 points and no offensive touchdowns to the Buccaneers in their previous match. A better pass rush could be the key to stopping the Bengals' offense and securing a win.