The Atlanta Falcons have made significant changes to their defense during the 2025 offseason. The team has retained key players such as Jessie Bates III and A.J. Terrell in the secondary, while Kaden Elliss and David Onyemata remain crucial for the front seven. New additions include Leonard Floyd and several rookies, with Divine Deablo emerging as a standout inside linebacker.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris praised Deablo’s athleticism and ability to read plays, stating, “His athleticism stands out. It’s been unique. His length stands out, which has been unique.” Deablo joined the Falcons after four seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he started 42 of 54 games and recorded notable statistics including 288 tackles.
Originally a safety at Virginia Tech, Deablo transitioned to linebacker in the NFL due to his “unique” physical attributes. Falcons linebacker Kaden Elliss highlighted Deablo’s skills in practice: “I think he had probably the best play today in practice — really good tip.”
Deablo joins a linebacker group that includes Elliss, who had an impressive season in 2024 with over 130 tackles and five sacks. With Nate Landman now playing for San Francisco, Deablo is expected to fill an important role alongside Elliss.
Deablo himself emphasized his height and speed as his main strengths: “I feel like I’m very tall… And I’m really fast.” The Falcons are optimistic about developing these traits under Morris and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich.
Morris expressed satisfaction with Deablo’s integration into the team: “I’ve been really pleased with what he’s done… I’ve been really pleased how our locker room has accepted him.”
As minicamp progresses without Troy Andersen on the field due to injury concerns, Deablo has more opportunities to prove himself before training camp begins.
