In the ongoing search for defensive prowess, the Atlanta Falcons have announced the signing of All-XFL member Delontae Scott, sending ripples through both the XFL and NFL community. With an exciting career that began undrafted in 2020, Scott’s journey to the Falcons has been one marked by relentless determination, on-field grit, and a sheer love for the game.
Delontae Scott’s Journey to the Falcons
26-year-old Scott’s story began with a dream and a strong collegiate career as a member of the SMU Mustangs. His achievements there, including 10 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles in his redshirt senior year, set the stage for his post-college journey.
Despite going undrafted in 2020, Scott’s professional football odyssey has seen him in the green and yellow of the Packers, the black and yellow of the Steelers, and the blue and black of the Panthers. Scott’s NFL appearances totaled three with the Steelers, one in 2021 and two in 2022, playing 26 snaps on offense and special teams.
But it was his XFL stint with the San Antonio Brahmas that truly brought Scott into the limelight. Selected in the fourth round of the 2023 XFL Supplemental Draft, Scott’s contribution to the Brahmas is an impressive tale of 36 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss, and 7.5 sacks in just eight games.
The Falcons’ Defensive Game Plan
The Atlanta Falcons’ decision to sign Scott fills a significant roster spot opened up by putting linebacker Ade Ogundeji on injured reserve. Scott’s experience and achievements align perfectly with the Falcons’ defensive strategy, where top defensive linemen Calais Campbell, Grady Jarrett, and David Onyemata have set a high bar.
Third-round pick Zach Harrison, Ta’Quon Graham, and Justin Ellis round out the other notable candidates for reserve roles. The Falcons’ defensive line now has an interesting blend of veterans and young talent, promising an exciting season ahead.
Scott’s Impact on the XFL and NFL Relationship
Scott’s signing further cements the growing relationship between the XFL and the NFL. He is the tenth player from the San Antonio roster to be signed, and his NFL contract is the 55th signed by XFL players since this offseason began on May 15.
With 176 invitations sent to XFL players for camps or individual workouts with NFL teams since the conclusion of the XFL regular season, this partnership is shaping up as a productive pathway for aspiring football talents.
Delontae Scott’s signing with the Atlanta Falcons symbolizes more than just a roster move. It represents the persistent pursuit of excellence from an undrafted player, the wise strategic planning by a seasoned NFL team, and the blurring of lines between two distinct football leagues.
For the fans in Atlanta and the followers of the XFL, Scott’s journey to the Falcons is a testament to hard work, opportunity, and the unending fascination with the game of football. Expect Scott to make his presence felt in the NFL once more, this time as a Falcon.
