DT Justin Zimmer back with Falcons on practice squad

The Atlanta Falcons have brought back a recently-cut defensive lineman to the practice squad.

So, it’s in with DT Justin Zimmer, out with DB Taveze Calhoun.

Zimmer flashed his athletic potential and motor in the preseason and earned a spot on the 53-man roster to supplant the depth on the defensive line. Though, that was pre-injury bug, and being on the back end of the roster can tend to get you waived from time to time. Once DT Grady Jarrett went down, the team needed a more prototypical presence on the interior, which is why they signed DT Michael Bennett.

Having Zimmer back allows him to go right back in to the team’s developmental program, which is a plus with Terrell McClain on a one-year deal and Jack Crawford’s contract expiring after 2019. It’s clear they like Zimmer and his potential, so maybe he can be groomed for a larger role down the road. The team could certainly use him one day.

Calhoun wasn’t here long, so well wishes to him wherever he goes.

Welcome back, Zimmer. Perhaps we’ll see him on the active roster again before the end of the year.