Falcons release OLB Jacob Tuioti-Mariner in surprise move

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons released outside linebacker Jacob Tuioti-Mariner and punter Cam Nizialek on Tuesday.

The Falcons also signed defensive back Chris Williamson from the practice squad to the 53-man roster.

The release of Tuioti-Mariner was a surprise. Though he was inactive for two games, including last week's win at New Orleans, Tuioti-Mariner shared the team lead with two sacks and had nine tackles.

Tuioti-Mariner moved from defensive tackle to outside linebacker for the 2021 season. He had 31 tackles and one sack in 16 games in 2020.

The Falcons may soon have more help at linebacker. Dante Fowler could return to practice this week from a knee injury.

Nizialek opened the season as the starting punter before he was placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury on Oct. 5. Atlanta signed veteran Dustin Colquitt, who has kept the starting job.

On Monday, the Falcons waived defensive tackle Deadrin Senat, a 2018 third-round draft pick.

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