The Atlanta Falcons decided to shake up their roster this offseason, passing up on re-signing a few key veterans and using the 2025 NFL draft to address their various needs.
One of those vets that the Falcons didn’t re-sign was safety Richie Grant, who took his talents to the West Coast, signing a one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers. After being a starter for two years in Atlanta, Grant was a backup last year behind Justin Simmons.
The ex-Falcons safety will look to show the 49ers that he can still be a capable starter in the league and is already putting in the extra work.
Richie Grant Already Proving to 49ers That He’s Ready to Compete
In a video posted on social media (h/t @OurSf49ers), Grant was seen doing a box drill in San Francisco’s locker room after practice.
The 27-year-old defensive back did not take it easy doing the reps inside the locker room, as it's clear he’s looking to boost his stock heading into training camp. The ex-Falcon has a chance to get extended reps in mandatory minicamp and maybe training camp with the 49ers, as Ji’Ayir Brown and Malik Mustapha are hobbled by injury.
In his last year with the Falcons, the veteran defender posted 14 combined tackles, two pass deflections, and two tackles for loss in 17 games (one start). He played 78 percent of special teams and only 15 percent of defensive snaps (career-worst).
However, when he was a full-time starter in 2023, Grant had 103 combined tackles, six pass deflections, five quarterback hits, three sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception. He also possessed a 68.4 completion percentage allowed on targets, a 126.6 pass rating allowed when targeted, and gave up six receiving touchdowns.
You can see why the Falcons wanted an upgrade heading into last season, but now Grant has a chance for a fresh start in San Francisco.