FALCONS OTA UPDATE: Atlanta Falcons Cut Ties With Safety Benny Sapp, Signs And Reunite With Former Titans DB In A Surprise Trade. As Head Coach Raheem Morris Addresses Kyle Pitts Injury Update, And Future With Falcons.

FALCONS OTA UPDATE: Atlanta Falcons Cut Ties With Safety Benny Sapp, Reunite With Former Titans DB In Surprise Trade, As Head Coach Raheem Morris Gives Injury Update On Kyle Pitts And His Future With Falcons

In a flurry of unexpected roster activity during Organized Team Activities (OTAs), the Atlanta Falcons have released safety Benny Sapp III and executed a surprise move by signing a familiar face—former Tennessee Titans defensive back Amani Hooker. The transaction marks a notable shift in the Falcons’ secondary as the team seeks to bolster its defensive depth ahead of training camp.

Sapp, who was vying for a backup role in the safety rotation, struggled to make a strong impression during OTAs. Despite his athleticism and college pedigree, the coaching staff reportedly preferred a more experienced presence in the secondary. That led to a reunion with Hooker, a player known for his ball-hawking skills and strong run defense. Hooker played under Falcons defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake during his early years, which made him a natural fit for Raheem Morris’ evolving defensive scheme.

“We needed someone with versatility, leadership, and familiarity with what we’re building here,” said Head Coach Raheem Morris. “Amani brings all of that. We’re excited to have him in the building.”

Beyond the secondary reshuffling, all eyes remain on tight end Kyle Pitts, who continues to work back from last season’s injury setbacks. Pitts, once viewed as a generational talent at his position, has endured frustrating injuries since his electric rookie campaign. Coach Morris addressed Pitts’ progress during a press conference on Tuesday, stating that while the young star is still on a “limited workload,” his rehab is going well and he is expected to be “100 percent ready” by the start of training camp.

“Kyle is a competitor. He’s not just rehabbing—he’s attacking it,” Morris said. “He wants to be great, and we still believe he’s a cornerstone piece of what we’re building offensively.”

Morris also hinted at expanded usage for Pitts in 2025, noting that the team wants to “unlock” his full potential with new offensive looks that better showcase his versatility and size mismatch.

As the Falcons continue to retool during OTAs, the mix of roster adjustments, injury updates, and returning faces signals a team with playoff aspirations, laser-focused on depth, health, and growth heading into the season.