Falcons New CB Signing is Former Vikings’ 1st-Round Pick

The Atlanta Falcons have been busy on the free agent market and have added another player on Tuesday according to a report from Ian Rapoport.

Rapoport reported early Monday evening that former Minnesota Vikings’ first-round pick Mike Hughes would be visiting the Falcons. Not long after, Rapoport confirmed he was expected to sign with Atlanta.

“Mike Hughes is now expected to sign with the Falcons, sources say,” reported Rapoport on Twitter. “Another defensive addition for ATL.”

Hugues was originally selected in the first round with the 30th overall pick by the Vikings in 2018. He struggled to live up to his first-round status with the Vikings only starting seven games in three years in Minnesota.

But he did carve out a role on the Vikings’ defense in his second season with 45 tackles and an interception.

Hughes spent 2021 with the Kansas City Chiefs where he played over 500 snaps on defense as well 164 on special teams before playing for the Detroit Lions last season.

In Detroit, Hughes started six games and had a career high 51 tackles.

Hughes got a 59.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus last season with the Lions. He was graded exceptionally high on run defense at 81.1 but struggled in coverage with a 51.4 grade.

Coverage is obviously key for a cornerback, so he’ll need to continue his good work on special teams to maximize his contribution to the Falcons.

Former Falcons special-teams ace Mike Ford signed with the Cleveland Browns earlier on Monday. Hughes looks to be an upgrade on defense, but he’ll have big shoes to fill on special teams with the loss of Ford.

The Falcons also signed another former top-special teams player on Sunday in the form of wide receiver Mack Hollins. Hollins made his name on special teams with the Miami Dolphins before having a breakout season with the Las Vegas Raiders last year.

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