Falcons Continue Roster Overhaul, Add UFL Talent and International Specialist

The Atlanta Falcons continue to reshape the bottom half of their roster as mini camp competition heats up, announcing a series of moves over the last two days that add experience, production, and potential from both the UFL and international ranks.

Atlanta first signed defensive end Keshawn Banks, defensive tackle Devonnsha Maxwell, and wide receiver Antwane Wells Jr., while releasing defensive lineman Elijah Garcia, defensive end C.J. Nunnally IV, and wide receiver Casey Washington.

Banks arrives after a productive 2026 season with the Orlando Storm of the UFL, where he recorded 24 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, five sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in 10 games. The former San Diego State standout also spent time with the Green Bay Packers, New England Patriots, and Arizona Cardinals. His ability to disrupt plays in the backfield gives Atlanta another intriguing pass-rushing option to evaluate.

Maxwell brings plenty of experience of his own after spending the last two seasons with the DC Defenders. The Valdosta, Georgia native appeared in 24 games, totaling 47 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and four sacks. Before turning pro, Maxwell was a force at Chattanooga, where he amassed 163 tackles and 28 sacks during his collegiate career.

The Falcons also added another weapon on offense with the signing of Wells Jr. The former James Madison, South Carolina, and Ole Miss receiver spent the 2026 season with the Columbus Aviators, hauling in 25 catches for 237 yards and two touchdowns. Across his college career, Wells compiled 215 receptions, 3,370 receiving yards, and 34 touchdowns, showcasing the playmaking ability that once made him one of the more productive receivers in college football.

One day later, Atlanta made another notable addition, signing punter Matthew Hayball and designating him as the team’s exempt international player.

Hayball, a native of West Adelaide, Australia, spent the 2024 season with the New Orleans Saints after entering the NFL out of Vanderbilt. During his rookie season, he appeared in all 17 games and averaged 44.0 yards per punt while placing 41 punts inside the 20-yard line.

Before arriving in the NFL, Hayball built one of the most decorated punting careers in Vanderbilt history. He averaged 45.2 yards per punt across five seasons and earned First-Team All-SEC and All-America honors in 2023 after posting a 47.6-yard average. He also became the only active punter across all NCAA divisions at the time to surpass 13,000 career punting yards.

None of these moves may generate the same headlines as a draft pick or marquee free-agent signing, but they reflect a front office committed to increasing competition at every position. Whether it’s adding pass-rushing depth, evaluating another receiver, or strengthening special teams, the Falcons continue to search for players who can carve out roles and contribute when called upon.

As camp progresses, don’t be surprised if one or more of these additions turns into a name Falcons fans are talking about come September.