Falcons Waive Jamal Agnew Amid Offseason Overhaul

The Atlanta Falcons are entering another offseason with significant decisions ahead. After finishing 5-9 and missing the playoffs for the eighth consecutive year, the organization continues to search for a clear identity. As part of that effort, the Falcons have decided to waive veteran kick and punt returner Jamal Agnew, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.

Agnew, a 2017 fifth-round pick, made an immediate impact in his rookie season with the Detroit Lions, earning All-Pro honors. He later achieved a Pro Bowl selection with the Jacksonville Jaguars, showcasing his speed and playmaking ability. However, his performance with Atlanta has fallen short of those earlier accomplishments. This season, Agnew averaged 7.6 yards per punt return and 24.7 yards per kickoff return, both below his career averages.

The decision highlights broader issues beyond one player. The Falcons have struggled across multiple phases of the game, from offense and defense to special teams. Injuries have contributed to those difficulties, but inconsistencies in execution, particularly in the return game, have emphasized the need for organizational change.

Atlanta has three games remaining this season, starting with a Sunday road matchup against the Arizona Cardinals (3-11). Those contests could provide the team with a chance to evaluate in-house options at returner before entering the offseason.

1. Agnew’s Career and Impact

Jamal Agnew made an immediate splash in the NFL with his dynamic play in the return game. During his rookie season with Detroit, he earned All-Pro recognition, signaling his potential to become one of the league’s premier return specialists. He continued to impress in subsequent years, earning a Pro Bowl nod with Jacksonville and providing game-changing plays on special teams. Agnew’s speed and vision made him a threat on both punts and kickoffs, forcing opposing teams to account for him on every return. Despite past success, his tenure with Atlanta has been underwhelming. His averages in punt and kickoff returns this season have dipped below career norms, reflecting struggles to consistently impact games. As Agnew looks to catch on with another team, he leaves behind a career that includes notable highlights and a reputation as a dynamic return man capable of shifting momentum in games.

2. Falcons’ Special Teams Challenges

Atlanta’s decision to move on from Agnew underscores the broader deficiencies in special teams. Beyond individual performance, the unit has struggled to consistently create field position advantages and capitalize on opportunities between downs. Special teams often go overlooked, but lapses in coverage, blocking, and execution can significantly influence game outcomes. For the Falcons, revamping the unit is essential to improving overall competitiveness. The organization faces a delicate balance of finding experienced replacements versus developing younger players from within the roster. Evaluating candidates over the remaining three games of the season will be critical to identifying potential solutions. Improving special teams execution is part of a larger effort to establish identity and discipline across all phases of play, a focus that will carry into the offseason.

3. Looking Ahead for Agnew and the Falcons

For Agnew, the move signals a new chapter. He did not play during the 2024-25 campaign, and with his 31st birthday approaching in April, opportunities for a resurgence may be limited. Yet his speed, experience, and playmaking history could appeal to teams in need of return depth. For the Falcons, the timing of the move allows flexibility. With three games remaining, Atlanta can explore alternative options and assess younger contributors in game situations. The decision also reflects the franchise’s broader approach to rebuilding. By addressing weaknesses at special teams, the Falcons hope to complement changes on offense, defense, and coaching personnel, aiming to build a more competitive team for 2026. Ultimately, the Falcons are prioritizing structural improvements while Agnew seeks a chance to extend his NFL career with a new opportunity.