Falcons sign DT Ahtyba Rubin, waive DT Taniela Tupou

After getting gashed by the run repeatedly over the last two games, and with the loss of Jack Crawford to injury, the Falcons were in a bad spot with their defensive tackle depth. Grady Jarrett and Dontari Poe are both playing well, but they simply don’t have the guys behind them with Upshaw still recovering from injury.

To remedy that situation, the Falcons have signed the recently-released DT Ahtyba Rubin, who last played for the Broncos (2017) and Seahawks (2015-2016).

The 6’2, 330 lb Rubin is known as an excellent run stopper that is capable of taking on double teams from the nose tackle position. Rubin gives the Falcons another piece that can stop the run, and gives them a different option on base downs if Poe needs a breather. He doesn’t offer much as a pass rusher, but the Falcons already have plenty of capable options there.

Rubin has been in the league since 2008 and has a lot of experience playing in this defensive scheme. Over his career, he’s amassed 413 tackles, 15 sacks, 7 pass deflections, 2 INTs, and 6 forced fumbles.

To make room for Rubin on the roster, the team has waived the recently-promoted DT Taniela Tupou. I would’ve preferred to see the team move on from Joe Vellano—who’s looked like a total liability at times—but Tupou will likely find himself back on the practice squad if he clears waivers.

I like the move as it fills a big need for the Falcons with a proven veteran player that has experience in the scheme. What are your thoughts on the addition of Rubin?