Atlanta Falcons sign veteran pass catcher Anthony Firkser

On Tuesday afternoon, the Atlanta Falcons announced they signed former Tennessee Titans tight end Anthony Firkser. The signing is a one-year deal, with the contract details yet to be announced.

After Hayden Hurst signed with the Cincinnati Bengals and Lee Smith announced his retirement, the Falcons were on the market for a serviceable backup right end to play behind Kyle Pitts in his second season in the NFL. Firkser brings in a solid veteran presence to fill this hole that the Falcons needed to fill.

Here is a look at what the Falcons’ depth chart should look like with Firkser now in the lineup:

• Starter: Kyle Pitts
• Backup: Anthony Firkser
• Third String: Parker Hesse
• Fourth String: Daniel Helm/Ryan Becker

This move also seemingly eliminates the Atlanta Falcons from drafting a backup tight end in the NFL Draft but could have them looking for a young blocking tight end.

Firkser will reunite with Arthur Smith, who Firkser played under in Tennessee from 2018-2020. In his three seasons with Firkser, Smith served as tight ends coach in 2018 and offensive coordinator in 2019 and 2020 for the Titans.

Signing Firkser also reunites him with quarterback Marcus Mariota, who he played with in 2018. With Mariota, Firkser accounted for 225 yards and a touchdown while posting 19 receptions on 20 targets.

In four seasons with Tennessee, he hauled in 106 receptions for 1,107 yards and five touchdowns.

In 2021, Firkser posted 34 receptions on 43 targets, accounting for 291 yards and a pair of touchdowns. His 291 receiving yards ranked fifth on the Titans.

2020 was Firkser’s most productive year, as his 387 receiving yards ranked fourth on the Titans. He also accounted for a touchdown and 26 first downs in 2020.

Firkser signed with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent after he finished his collegiate career with Harvard. He then played with the Kansas City Chiefs on their practice squad before signing with the Tennessee Titans.