Brooks Reed to Sign with Falcons: Latest Contract Details, Comments and Reaction

The Atlanta Falcons made a key free-agent addition to their defense on Tuesday, agreeing to terms with former Houston Texans linebacker Brooks Reed.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported it's a five-year, $22 million deal.       

Reed was a second-round pick in 2011 and had spent his entire career in Houston before Tuesday's move. The 28-year-old outside linebacker is versatile thanks to his size and athleticism and should find a role in coach Dan Quinn's hybrid 4-3 defense.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Reed won't be the only addition to the Falcons' linebacker corps, with former Cowboy Justin Durant expected to follow suit.

Quinn was the defensive coordinator in Seattle, and the front office is evidently trying to provide him with more talent on that side of the ball.

Texans offensive tackle Duane Brown congratulated Reed on his new deal, praising Reed's work ethic:

Considering Atlanta finished tied for 30th in sacks and last in total defense last season, it's necessary for the Falcons to acquire proven players to improve the anemic unit.

Adding Reed to the mix ought to help Atlanta fix its defensive woes. Although he likely won't contribute much as a pass-rusher, that ought to be where the Falcons focus their priorities in the first round of the draft anyway.

This team could be in for a big turnaround in 2015 if the defense shows marked improvement.

With a quality quarterback in Matt Ryan leading the offense and new play-caller Kyle Shanahan bringing in an effective zone-blocking running scheme, there shouldn't be any difficulty scoring points.   

The key is for Quinn to zero in on his area of expertise and stop opponents. Landing quality veterans like Reed will help the cause.