The 2024 NFL Draft has concluded, and we’re shifting our focus towards the upcoming season. Rookie minicamp is currently in progress, and the Atlanta Falcons are actively seeking improvement. Recently, on Friday, the Falcons organized tryouts for several players, including tight end Sean McKeon, defensive back Dane Cruikshank, defensive end Bradlee Anae, and linebacker David Anenih, along with other seasoned veterans.
Following these tryouts, the Falcons have made decisions regarding their roster. They’ve opted to move forward with Cruikshank and Anae, having signed both players.
The #Falcons are signing a pair of veteran free agents – defensive lineman Bradlee Anae and defensive back Dane Cruikshank – after their tryouts Friday, per agent @davidcanter of @GSEworldwide.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) May 11, 2024
Among the four tryouts mentioned, Dane Cruikshank boasts the most NFL experience. Over six seasons, he has participated in 54 games, primarily with the Tennessee Titans, where he played 46 games. His significant special teams experience, akin to his role with the Chicago Bears in 2022, may be a factor driving Atlanta’s interest in him. Time will tell how the Falcons utilize him.
Bradlee Anae, on the other hand, was drafted in the fifth round by the Dallas Cowboys in 2020. He saw action in 11 games across two seasons with them. Subsequently, he joined the New York Jets’ practice squad during the 2022 season and spent the entirety of the 2023 season on injured reserve. Although one wishes him success, it’s probable he’s merely a camp participant, given his absence from NFL games since October 10, 2021. However, under a new coaching regime, anything could happen.
Indeed, with the signings of Dane Cruikshank and Bradlee Anae, the Atlanta Falcons still have three roster spots remaining. This leaves room for the possibility of additional signings in the near future. It’ll be interesting to see which players the Falcons decide to bring in to fill those remaining spots as they continue to shape their roster for the upcoming season.
