The Falcons have agreed to terms with defensive tackle Dontari Poe.
"Poe is an athletic, big guy that can push the pocket," said General Manager Thomas Dimitroff. "He will add to our defensive line group and will mix nicely with Beasley, Jarrett, Shelby and Clayborn. We are happy to be able to add him to our roster."
The two-time Pro Bowler from the University of Memphis has been a key contributor for the Kansas City Chiefs since being drafted in 2012. The 346-pound, former first round selection has recorded 202 total tackles in 78 games played – 76 started – while also recording 13 sacks, 12 passes defensed, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. In 2013, Poe was selected to his first career Pro Bowl. That season he recorded 4.5 sacks and 52 total tackles – 43 solo – along with four passes defensed. He followed that year up with another Pro Bowl selection in 2014, while posting a career high six sacks and 46 total tackles.
Last season, Poe played in all 16 games, while recording 27 total tackles – 18 solo - with 1.5 sacks, three passes defensed, and one forced fumble. The Memphis native will be a welcomed sight to a defensive line that saw the emergence of, first-time Pro Bowler, Vic Beasley Jr. and third-year pro, Grady Jarrett – who recorded three sacks in Super Bowl LI. The defensive line will also see the return of Derrick Shelby and Adrian Clayborn, who recorded five sacks in 13 games played last season.
