A former Longhorn is getting a second chance to make the Atlanta Falcons roster. On Tuesday, the Falcons announced they were signing defensive back Josh Thompson to a deal while releasing safety Benny Sapp III. Last offseason, Thompson spent training camp with Atlanta before being waived by the team prior to the start of the regular season.

The Texas native went undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft before signing with the Jacksonville Jaguars. After a short stint with the Jaguars, Thompson ended up with the Tennessee Titans. During his rookie campaign, he appeared in six games and recorded total tackles. His NFL journey has also included a stint with the Houston Texans.

Thompson will be reunited with one of his former teammates, Bijan Robinson, in Atlanta. The two crossed paths for two years at Texas and during Thompson’s previous stint in Atlanta. With Thompson back in the mix, Texas will be well-represented on the Falcon’s roster. 

As a Longhorn, Thompson was a highely productive player. In five seasons, he played in 46 games while posting 109 total tackles. He also finished his college career with one fumble recovery, nine passes defended, two interceptions, and one pick-six. The only touchdown of his Longhorns tenure came against Texas Tech during the 2021 season. 

While Thompson will have to battle for a roster spot, he is at least in a familiar place. Atlanta will begin its preseason at home against the Detroit Lions on August 8. That will be Thompson’s first game back in a Falcons jersey and a prime opportunity for him to make a case for a roster spot.Â