Falcons Add Perkins, Barrow to Practice Squad; Release Parker

The Atlanta Falcons continue to shape their roster ahead of Week 1, announcing the additions of edge rusher Ronnie Perkins and defensive lineman Simeon Barrow Jr. to the practice squad. As a corresponding move, the team released offensive lineman Brandon Parker.

Perkins, a former third-round pick (96th overall) by the New England Patriots in the 2021 NFL Draft, brings NFL experience and pass-rush depth to Atlanta. The St. Louis, Mo., native has appeared in seven career games, posting 13 tackles (nine solo), two tackles for loss, and one quarterback hit across stints with the Patriots (2021-23), Denver Broncos (2023-24), and Arizona Cardinals (2024). At Oklahoma, Perkins played in 33 games over three seasons (2018-20), finishing his college career with 99 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, 16.5 sacks, and one forced fumble.

Barrow, meanwhile, is a familiar face, originally signing with the Falcons following the 2025 NFL Draft. The Grovetown, Ga., native spent one season at Miami in 2024 after transferring from Michigan State, where he played from 2021-23. Across his college career, Barrow tallied 140 tackles (57 solo), 26.5 tackles for loss, 16 sacks, three forced fumbles, two passes defensed, and one fumble recovery, showcasing consistency as a disruptive interior presence.

With Perkins and Barrow joining the practice squad, Atlanta strengthens its defensive front while moving on from Parker, who had been competing for depth along the offensive line. These moves highlight the Falcons’ continued effort to solidify depth and flexibility heading into the 2025 season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.