Falcons Waive Ivey, Release Jackson
Atlanta cut two defensive linemen on Monday, leaving both roster spots unfilled.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Football
The Atlanta Falcons waived defensive lineman Jared Ivey and released Drake Jackson. Neither roster spot created by the moves was filled.
Why it matters
The moves reduce depth on the Falcons' defensive line while several players are sidelined. The club has not yet filled the openings they created.
Ivey logged 8 tackles and a sack across seven appearances, while Jackson appeared in two games after joining the active roster last month. Neither player's future with Atlanta was addressed in the announcement.
The players
Atlanta Falcons
The National Football League franchise based in Atlanta, Georgia, which competes in the NFC South division.
Jared Ivey
A defensive lineman who was claimed off waivers from the Seahawks before the season and played seven games with Atlanta.
Drake Jackson
A defensive end who was released from the Commanders' injured reserve list in September before joining the Falcons.
The details
Ivey was claimed off waivers from the Seahawks ahead of the season. Jackson had been released from the Commanders' injured reserve list in September before signing to the Falcons' practice squad and later the active roster.
Timeline
September: Jackson released from Commanders injured reserve and signed to practice squad.
Ahead of the season: Ivey claimed off waivers from Seahawks.
Last month: Jackson signed to Falcons active roster.
November 2, 2026: Falcons waived Ivey and released Jackson.
Season Trajectory
Roster churn of this kind is typical under NFL practice squad and waiver rules, where teams move depth players in and out as injuries and suspensions shift. The Falcons' decisions come while James Pearce and Yasir Abdullah could return this week, which may change how the club balances its defensive line.
The moves leave the Falcons with two open roster spots and affect fantasy projections for players on the defensive line. Pearce and Abdullah's possible return this week would change the rotation again.
The takeaway
Roster moves like these often reflect short-term depth decisions rather than long-term shifts, so fans should watch the injury reports for Pearce and Abdullah this week to gauge the next changes.
What happens next
James Pearce and Yasir Abdullah could return to the Falcons this week, which may affect the defensive depth chart.
Further reading
For more on the team's roster moves, see Football coverage.
