Falcons coach Dan Quinn is adding some experience to his ferocious defensive front.
Atlanta has signed linebacker Philip Wheeler, the team announced Tuesday. In a corresponding move, the Falcons released safety Charles Godfrey.
Wheeler, an eight-year veteran, has compiled 493 combined tackles for the Colts, Raiders and Dolphins over his career. He was most recently a member of the 49ers with whom he played one game in the preseason. However, Wheeler was released following the final preseason game and had not been picked by a team through the first six weeks of the season.
The linebacker will add depth to a core that boasts Justin Durant, Paul Worrilow and O'Brien Schofield, who have combined for 79 tackles so far this season, and has helped the Falcons lead the league in rush defense (78.8 yards/game).
