FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons have officially signed free agent punter Jake Bailey.
He was drafted by the Patriots in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft and spent four years in New England. In 2020, Bailey was named to the Pro Bowl and earned first-team All-Pro recognition after averaging a career-best 48.7 yards per punt.
Bailey signed with the Miami Dolphins as a free agent in 2023 and has been there for the past three seasons. In 2025, Bailey worked with new Falcons special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman, who held the same role for the Dolphins last season. During his time in Miami, Bailey averaged 46.9 yards per punt.
"He lets the specialist operate, which I really like," Bailey said. "He puts us in situations where we can be successful. ... He gets everyone set up well."
Aukerman wasn't the only familiar face Bailey knew in the building. He and new Falcons kicker Nick Folks worked together previously when the two were with the New England Patriots from 2019-22. In a full-circle moment, too, Bailey went to college with tight end Austin Hooper, who returned to the Falcons on a one-year deal this offseason.
"I am super honored that they wanted to have me here," Bailey said.
The NFL's new league year began Wednesday at 4 p.m., meaning teams can now officially sign free agents and finalize trades. Visit our 2026 Free Agency Tracker to stay up to date on the Falcons in free agency.
