FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – The Atlanta Falcons today signed linebacker Mike Peterson as an unrestricted free agent from the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Peterson, 6-1, 238 pounds, is a 10-year NFL veteran who has spent time with the Indianapolis Colts (1999-2002) and Jacksonville Jaguars (2003-2008). For five seasons, Peterson was led by Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith who served as the Jaguars Defensive Coordinator from 2003-2007. In 135 career games with 127 starts, Peterson has totaled 1,365 tackles (792 solo), 19.5 sacks, 15 interceptions, 40 passes defensed, six forced fumbles and seven fumbles recoveries. He also scored his only NFL touchdown on a 26-yard interception return against the Baltimore Ravens in 2005. Last season, Peterson led the Jaguars with 139 tackles, which marked his eighth season with 100-plus stops.
“Mike is a very sound, versatile linebacker who has gained plenty of experience and knowledge over his 10-year career,” said General Manager Thomas Dimitroff. “He is the type of player who will lead the team on the field and in the locker room. We are excited to have him represent the Falcons this season.”
Peterson collected 837 tackles in his Jaguars career, which ranks second in team history behind safety Donovin Darius (858). He also tallied double-digit tackles in 73 career games and 15-plus tackles in 23 games. In 2005, Peterson produced career-best numbers with 190 tackles, six sacks and three interceptions. His tackle total that season ranked second among AFC linebackers and fourth among NFL linebackers.
“I had the pleasure of coaching Mike for five seasons in Jacksonville,” Smith said. “He is a passionate player who brings a great deal of intensity to the game.”
RELATED LINKS:
- FREE AGENCY HOME: More information on the Falcons 2009 free agents
- QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: More on free agency in this FAQ
- NFL.COM: Free agency news from NFL.com
- TRANSACTIONS: Click here for a list of Falcons official transactions from 2001 to present
- IMPORTANT DATES: Key days in the 2009 NFL Offseason
