NFL Free Agency: Atlanta Falcons sign Javier Arenas

Dec 8, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals kickoff returner Javier Arenas against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Although the major news surrounding the Atlanta Falcons on Tuesday was the visit of former Chicago Bears’ wide receiver/return man Devin Hester, the Falcons have made a move, signing veteran cornerback Javier Arenas, according to D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal Constitution.

"The Falcons are set to sign returner/nickel back Javier Arenas to a one-year contract today, according to his Atlanta-based agent Hadley Engelhard."

Arenas was originally drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 50th overall pick of the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft.

As a rookie, Arenas made 43 tackles and 3.0 sacks and was the Chiefs’ primary return man while appearing in all 16 games.

After three seasons in Kansas City, the Chiefs traded Arenas to the Arizona Cardinals.

After joining the Cardinals, Arenas had a disappointing 2013 season. He was the team’s kick returner, but had just 12 tackles and one sack on defense.

Like Hester, the former Alabama Crimson Tide star was once a highly touted return man. Unlike Hester, Arenas has never returned a kick or punt for a touchdown in the NFL.

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