---
title: "Falcons add DT Blacklock, LB Rayner in low-stakes roster churn"
description: "Atlanta signs two defensive pieces with potential over production. Blacklock's draft pedigree stands out."
url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/falcons-sign-dt-ross-blacklock-lb-daveren-rayner-mp1o7nqb
published: 2026-05-11T20:28:36+00:00
updated: 2026-05-13T12:09:14.71+00:00
author: "Kostadin Stamboliev"
publisher: "Pineido"
site: "Sportopod"
language: en
topics: ["football"]
---

# Falcons add DT Blacklock, LB Rayner in low-stakes roster churn

> Atlanta signs two defensive pieces with potential over production. Blacklock's draft pedigree stands out.

The Atlanta Falcons officially signed defensive tackle Ross Blacklock and linebacker Daveren Rayner on Monday, confirming two previously reported roster moves.

Blacklock, a former third-round pick of the Texans, brings interior pass-rush potential after stints with the Vikings and Jaguars.

Rayner, an undrafted linebacker out of Toledo, adds depth to a Falcons linebacking corps that needed young legs.

The moves are low-key but signal Atlanta's continued churn for rotational bodies on defense.

Blacklock has first-round talent but has yet to put it together; if he clicks, it's a steal.

Rayner is a camp body with special-teams upside.

What's next: Both players will compete for roster spots in training camp, with Blacklock the name to watch given his draft pedigree.

## Why this matters

For Falcons fans, these signings are the kind of under-the-radar depth moves that fill out a 90-man roster. Blacklock has first-round talent but has yet to put it together; if he clicks, it's a steal. Rayner is a camp body with special-teams upside. Neither moves the needle for 2026, but they show the front office isn't done tinkering.

## Frequently asked

### Who is Ross Blacklock?

Ross Blacklock is a defensive tackle drafted in the third round by the Texans in 2020. He has since played for the Vikings and Jaguars, showing interior pass-rush potential but inconsistent production.

### Who is Daveren Rayner?

Daveren Rayner is an undrafted linebacker from Toledo. He adds depth to the Falcons' linebacker room and offers special-teams upside as a camp body.

### Why do these signings matter for the Falcons?

They fill out the 90-man roster with low-risk, high-upside players. Blacklock could be a steal if he realizes his draft potential, while Rayner provides young legs and special-teams depth.

### What is the timeline for these players?

Both will compete for roster spots during training camp. Blacklock is the name to watch given his pedigree, but neither is expected to be a starter in 2026.

## Sources & Citations

- [Falcons sign DT Ross Blacklock, LB Daveren Rayner](https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/falcons-sign-dt-ross-blacklock-lb-daveren-rayner) — Pro Football Talk (2026-05-11)

---

Cite: Falcons add DT Blacklock, LB Rayner in low-stakes roster churn. Sportopod, 2026-05-11. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/falcons-sign-dt-ross-blacklock-lb-daveren-rayner-mp1o7nqb