By Blessing 
Jamal Agnew, a former All-Pro return specialist, is heading to Atlanta. The 29-year-old has signed with the Falcons, bringing his electric playmaking ability to a new special teams unit.
Agnew made a name for himself with the Detroit Lions after being selected in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. As a rookie, he lit up the league, leading the NFL with 447 punt return yards, two touchdowns, and averaging an impressive 15.4 yards per return. That performance earned him first-team All-Pro honors right out of the gate.
Originally drafted as a defensive back, Agnew made a transition to wide receiver during his final season in Detroit in 2020. He then signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he continued to make an impact. Over three seasons in Jacksonville, Agnew hauled in 61 receptions for 641 yards and five touchdowns, while still shining on special teams—adding another kick return score to his resume and earning his first Pro Bowl nod.
In total, Agnew has four career punt-return touchdowns—still tied for the most among active players—and two kick-return touchdowns.
Although he spent last season on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad while recovering from a late 2023 leg injury, Agnew now gets a fresh start with the Falcons. He’ll reunite with Marquice Williams, Atlanta’s special teams coordinator, who previously worked with Agnew during a stint in Detroit.
With his elite return skills and versatility, Agnew could provide a spark for Atlanta’s special teams unit this season.