Falcons activate TE Parker Hesse from the reserve/COVID-19 list

The Falcons activated TE Parker Hesse, a former UDFA out of Iowa who most recently spent time with the Titans, from the reserve/COVID-19 list. Hesse fills the roster spot created by placing CB Kendall Sheffield on IR.

We’re getting tantalizingly close to the first Falcons football of the 2021 NFL season. Mercifully, OLB Brandon Copeland was the only player the inaugural injury report, as he was limited with a hamstring issue. One player did remain on the reserve/COVID-19 list, however: TE Parker Hesse. After placing CB Kendall Sheffield on IR, the Falcons left the roster spot open—and it appears they were saving it for Hesse.

Hesse has been activated off the reserve/COVID-19 list, meaning that he will be available for Sunday’s game against Philadelphia.

Hesse, a former UDFA out of Iowa, is actually a defensive convert. He was originally signed as a UDFA by the Titans back in 2020, before being signed to a futures contract for 2021. Hesse was waived back in May, and Arthur Smith pounced on the opportunity to reunite. A special teams ace with above-average athleticism, Hesse won a close competition with fellow UDFA John Raine for the final roster spot.

It’s unclear if Hesse will be active on gamedays as the fourth TE due to his special teams ability. Either way, Hesse will provide depth as a blocker and receiver, and should be able to contribute on teams due to his tackling and athletic ability.